The main purpose of the project ”Regulation mechanism of magnetic properties in rare earth-free nanocrystalline MnBi permanent magnets” is to find material-processing-properties correlations to enhance the magnetic properties of rare-earth free MnBi alloy. Based on theoretical studies it was found that MnBi can reach values of magnetic field as high as 5.6 T, but the experimental values do not surpass the value of 2 T. From this point of view, it is important to find new technologies or efficient additions that will allow reaching magnetic fields higher than 2 T. The research teams from Romania and China proposed two approaches, such as using (1) the unconventional technology of Spark Plasma Sintering for obtaining high density and nanocrystalline samples, and (2) new additions. Also, we studied the possibility of fabrication of magnetic composite filaments used for 3D printing.
The novelty level is high, the interest of international scale being to replace the rare-earth based magnetic materials, or to significantly decrease the rare-earth content from magnetic materials. MnBi is a promising material for industrial applications, especially for transportation industry, where developing of highly efficient electric motors is required. MnBi is also interesting from a scientific point of view, the challenge being to optimize the chemical composition, or the processing technology in order to achieve magnetic field values close to the theoretical ones (~ 5.6T). The performed experiments show that this target is not an easy one, being a challenge for materials engineers, physicist and chemists. Based on theoretical and experimental studies new data can be obtained, that will lead to advanced future approaches or to discovery of new materials.
Technology plays a key role, the Romanian-Chinese group proving that good results can be achieved through a new, unconventional technology, based on spark plasma sintering.
From a scholastic point of view, MnBi is also an interesting material, easy to process, affordable, being suitable as a didactic material for laboratory experimental works, and as a research topic for graduating/master/PhD students. The social impact of developing such materials is significant, considering that rare earth natural resources are limited and located in few areas.
Developing of such affordable magnetic materials, cheap, easily to process opens the way to new applications, new industries and jobs.
Moreover, the implementation of MnBi magnetic materials in transportation industry and endorsing of electric transportation reduces the pollution, with a positive and direct impact on environment and life quality.
Project Director,
Dr. Dan Batalu
05.12.2019