Properties and Future Development of NdFeB Magnet Materials

I. Introduction to NdFeB Magnets
Neodymium Iron Boron (NdFeB) is a rare-earth permanent magnet material composed of neodymium, iron, and boron. It can retain its magnetic properties over extended periods even after the external magnetic field is removed.

As the third generation of rare-earth permanent magnets, NdFeB is characterized by its compact size, light weight, and strong magnetic properties. It is considered the most cost-effective magnet in terms of performance and is often referred to as the "Magnet King" in the field of magnetics. Its superior magnetic properties—high magnetic energy product and high coercivity—combined with its lightweight nature, make it widely applicable in areas such as new energy vehicle drive motors, electronic components, and aerospace.

It is anticipated that no magnetic material will replace NdFeB magnets in the next 20 years.

II. Current Technical Limitations
The shortcomings of NdFeB magnets primarily stem from their material properties and strong magnetic characteristics, including brittleness, susceptibility to corrosion, and thermal instability.

In particular, its porous structure and high chemical reactivity result in poor corrosion resistance, making it prone to oxidation failure in humid, hot, or salt spray environments. It is also susceptible to pulverization, which largely limits its broader application in industrial fields. These issues must be addressed by adjusting its chemical composition and employing surface treatment methods, such as nickel plating, zinc plating, or epoxy resin coating.

III. Broad Market Prospects
NdFeB magnets have expanded from traditional applications like electro-acoustic devices and motors to emerging strategic industries. They are widely used in energy, transportation, machinery, healthcare, IT, home appliances, and other sectors, demonstrating outstanding performance in applications such as magnetic components for wind turbine generators, magnetic therapy devices, and drone motors.

Especially with the development of the knowledge economy, represented by information technology, new applications continue to emerge for functional materials like the rare-earth permanent magnet NdFeB industry. The surging demand from new markets, such as new energy vehicles and robotics, promises even broader prospects for the NdFeB industry.