Overview

Neodymium is a rare earth metal essential for high performance permanent magnets used in motors and electronics.

Properties

It forms +3 ions, alloys readily to produce strong magnetic materials and has important optical properties in glass.

Occurrence and Uses

Neodymium is used in magnets for wind turbines, electric vehicles, headphones and lasers and in specialty glass.

Isotopes and Safety

Stable isotopes include Nd 142 to Nd 150; neodymium compounds are handled with standard industrial safety measures.