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Just the Facts: Ionic Rare Earths has major environmental win for recycling process

Published: 22:15 17 Feb 2025 EST


Ionic Rare Earths Ltd has reported a potential 30-50% reduction in the carbon footprint of its rare earth oxide (REO) production compared to conventional producers.

A preliminary Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) conducted by Minviro on the magnet recycling process of subsidiary Ionic Technologies has highlighted significant environmental benefits.

The results are undergoing peer review, with final findings expected in March 2025.

Ionic Technologies’ Belfast commercial recycling plant will focus on Didymium oxide ((NdPr)₂O₃ and Dysprosium oxide (Dy₂O₃, with additional analysis on Neodymium oxide (Nd₂O₃.

The study also assessed the environmental impact of applying IXR’s magnet REO products in direct drive wind turbine generators using Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM) technology.

The company aims to support a more sustainable rare earth supply chain, particularly in Europe, reducing dependence on Chinese markets.

IXR is working with Less Common Metals and Ford Technologies to establish a UK-based recycled magnet supply chain, with Ford using these materials at its EV drive train facility in Halewood.

Ionic Rare Earths expects the final study results to reinforce the advantages of its patented process and strengthen its position in decarbonising rare earth supply chains.