Ionic Technologies utilizes a patented ionic liquid process to recycle permanent magnets, recovering rare earth elements essential for sustainable energy applications. The company addresses the critical shortage of these materials in electric vehicles, wind energy, and aerospace by creating the first sustainable magnets that meet industry specifications.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
The increasing demand for rare earth elements (REEs) in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and other green technologies is creating a supply shortage and environmental concerns due to traditional mining and refining processes. Recycling permanent magnets, a significant source of REEs, is currently inefficient and often relies on environmentally damaging methods.
Solution
Ionic Technologies utilizes a patented ionic liquid process to efficiently recycle end-of-life permanent magnets and recover high-purity rare earth elements. This innovative approach provides a sustainable alternative to traditional REE mining, reducing environmental impact and reliance on primary resources. The recovered REEs can be used to manufacture new permanent magnets, closing the loop and supporting a circular economy. Ionic Technologies' process enables the creation of sustainable magnets that meet the stringent specifications required for EV, wind energy, military, and aerospace applications.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes magnet manufacturers, electric vehicle producers, wind turbine manufacturers, recycling companies, and alloy producers seeking a sustainable and reliable source of rare earth elements.
Features
- Patented ionic liquid technology for selective extraction and separation of REEs from permanent magnets
- Environmentally friendly process with reduced energy consumption and waste generation compared to conventional methods
- High-purity REE recovery suitable for direct use in magnet manufacturing
- Ability to process a wide range of permanent magnet compositions and forms
- Demonstration plant with a capacity of 30 tonnes per annum (tpa) in Belfast