In the intricate tapestry of modern technology, Rare Earth Elements (REEs) play a pivotal role, shaping the devices that define our daily lives. From smartphones to wind turbines, electric vehicles to medical equipment, these elements are the unsung heroes, enabling the functionalities that propel our society forward.
However, history tells a tale of dependence—a narrative predominantly authored by one nation: China. With an iron grip on the extraction and supply of REEs, China has held the reins, supplying 86% of the world’s REEs. The Europe Union’s strategic vulnerability is even greater as an astonishing 98- 99% of REEs like Neodymium (Nd), Praseodymium (Pr), Dysprosium (Dy), or Terbium (Tb) originate from China.
Enter the HARMONY project, an EU-funded initiative co-ordinated by Dr. José Manuel Martín from CEIT-BRTA in San Sebastian, Spain. This groundbreaking endeavour starts in January 2024 and brings together the expertise of more than 20 European partners, both from academia and industry. The project spans over the next 36 months and seeks to reshape the narrative by developing a closed- loop recycling process for NdFeB magnetsNdFeB magnets, also … More. But why the focus on these magnets?
The answer lies in their ubiquity. Among permanent magnets, the NdFeB type is not only the strongest but is also more resistant to de-magnetization. As such, they are crucial components in electronic devices, wind turbine generators, and hybrid-electric vehicle motors. These applications are all in strong demand, which only deepens our dependency for these elements. For example, the global installed capacity of onshore wind power is expected to more than double by 2030. Similarly, the proliferation of electric vehicles is set to skyrocket, with more than 1.3 million monthly global sales at the end of 2023. The catch? More than 90% of hybrid and electric vehicles are expected to be based on motors with NdFeB magnetsNdFeB magnets, also … More by 2025, forming an essential link in the chain toward achieving Europe’s carbon-neutral goals.
HARMONY’s mission is clear: liberate Europe from its historical reliance on China for REEs, secure critical value chains, and pave the way for a sustainable, circular economy. The project aims to achieve this by developing a comprehensive recycling process, covering everything from magnet collection and dismantling to metal recovery and magnet production.
Dr. José Manuel Martín emphasizes its significance, stating, “HARMONY is not just about recycling magnets; it’s about securing Europe’s future. Our dependence on China for Rare Earth Elements is a critical issue, and this project is a significant step towards ensuring our independence and sustainability.”
As we stand on the brink of a new era, the HARMONY project beckons—a beacon of hope illuminating a pathway towards a future where Europe stands resilient, self-reliant, and free from the shackles of historical dependencies.
You can stay up to date on the project’s most important communications and events by following the project’s website, LinkedIn and Twitter/X pages.