Exploring opportunities for a circular economy: permanent magnet motors

The demand for permanent magnet motors is expected to increase due the global shift to electrification. Permanent magnet motors are anticipated to be used in electric vehicles and offshore wind turbines – and even in robotics in the future. Yet, the permanent magnet motors depend on critical material supply chains that often experience market volatility. These critical materials include neodymium, praseodymium dysprosium, terbium, copper, and electrical steel. When considering the entire drivetrain, additional critical materials may be present including aluminum, silicon, and silicon carbide.

This panel will explore the lifecycle of permanent magnet motors, opportunities to extend the lifetime through circular strategies as well as recycling at end-of-life.