High-performance magnets for efficient energy conversion

Efficient energy converters require high-performance magnetic materials such as rare earth permanent magnets. Due to the criticality of rare earth metals, the major challenges are the reduction or avoidance of those elements in permanent magnets and to optimize the microstructure to approach theoretical predictions of micromagnetism. For better sustainability, it is furthermore expected for the materials to secure long-lasting use with subsequent recycling options. Possible solutions include: (1) In-depth quality assessment of magnets: A good process quality is the prerequisite for a long magnet lifetime. Defects cause premature demagnetization and thus aging of the magnets. Different microscopy techniques in combination with quantitative image analysis as well as component testing are developed as tools for quality assurance. (2) Tailoring and optimization of materials to the requirements of the electrical machine: Starting from well-known microstructure-property relations the magnetic properties can be tailored from a sustainability and economic point of view. Ce-substituted magnets and directly recycled magnets are particularly promising. (3) Identification of new materials and new technologies: Bulk high-throughput methods allow to explore completely new hard magnetic phases. The extent to which laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing can lead to good magnetic properties and new perspectives needs to be examined. The presentation gives insight into the different solutions.