NdFeB Scrap Industry: Coexistence of Environmental Protection and Opportunities [SMM Science Popularization]

SMM February 13 News: In today's era of rapid technological development, NdFeB magnets, widely used in fields such as electronic devices and motors, are highly favored for their strong magnetic properties. However, the NdFeB scrap generated during their production and use is gradually becoming an environmental issue and a valuable resource that cannot be ignored.

If not properly handled, NdFeB scrap can cause severe environmental pollution. However, with the enhancement of environmental protection awareness and technological advancements, the NdFeB scrap industry is embracing new development opportunities.

On January 29, 2025, good news came from the financial sector: Ganzhou Hengyuan Technology Co., Ltd. successfully obtained a patent for an "Automated Recycling Device for NdFeB Magnet Scrap," with the authorization announcement number CN119092250B and an application date of September 2024. Established in 2012, the company focuses on technology promotion and application services, with a registered capital of 73.71 million yuan and a paid-in capital of 51.0273 million yuan. According to Tianyancha data, Hengyuan Technology has not only made efforts in the R&D of recycling equipment but also invested in another company, participated in 16 bidding projects, owned 166 patents and 1 registered trademark, and obtained 12 administrative licenses.

This patent by Hengyuan Technology focuses on the automated recycling of NdFeB magnet scrap. Through a series of high-tech processes, it can quickly separate and purify useful components from the scrap. The application of advanced technologies such as laser cutting and intelligent recognition significantly improves work efficiency, reduces labour costs, and lays the foundation for large-scale operations. The invention of this patent greatly enhances the recycling rate of NdFeB magnet scrap, achieves resource recycling, and further alleviates environmental pressure.

Moreover, the environmental impact assessment document for the comprehensive treatment and recycling project of rare earth waste residue by Longnan Guangyu New Materials Co., Ltd. was recently approved. The project, with a total investment of 180 million yuan, uses rare earth waste residue (including NdFeB scrap sludge) as raw material to recover products such as rare earth oxides and macroporous pseudo-boehmite through different production lines and processes, while also producing industrial sodium sulphate as a by-product.

From a market perspective, NdFeB scrap enterprises hold a significant position in the rare earth market. According to an SMM survey, the domestic monthly production of NdFeB scrap exceeds 8,000 mt, with the monthly production of Pr-Nd oxide derived from domestic NdFeB scrap averaging over 2,500 mt, accounting for more than 26% of the domestic Pr-Nd oxide market. In the past, scrap enterprises faced issues such as selling prices failing to cover costs and capacity surplus, leaving many in a state of loss, with only about ten enterprises currently in operation. However, the recent rise in rare earth oxide prices has brought new opportunities for scrap enterprises, with profits gradually increasing. The industry is expected to end its prolonged losses and usher in a recovery.

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Against the backdrop of strong national policy support and growing environmental awareness, the NdFeB scrap industry has a promising future. While seizing opportunities, enterprises must also strengthen technological innovation and cost control to enhance competitiveness and profitability, achieving long-term sustainable development for the industry. With joint efforts from all parties, NdFeB scrap is expected to turn waste into treasure, contributing more to environmental protection and economic development.