Neodymium (Nd) is a major rare earth element crucial to modern strategic and clean-energy technologies. With rising global demand for electric mobility and renewable energy, neodymium has become central to the geopolitics of critical minerals.
Strategic importance of Neodymium (Nd)
- India plans to boost neodymium production nearly nine times to 500 tonnes by FY27, aiming to cut reliance on China and enhance strategic mineral security.
- Countries worldwide are pushing supply chain diversification to secure critical minerals essential for the clean-energy transition.
- Under India’s Critical Minerals Mission (2023), agencies like NMDC and MECL are undertaking detailed mapping and exploration of rare-earth deposits, including neodymium-rich sites.
Characteristics Of Neodymium (Nd)
- Symbol: Nd
- Atomic Number: 60
- Part of the lanthanide series, classified as a rare earth metal.
- Identified in 1885 by Karl Auer in Vienna.
Occurrence
- Found mainly in monazite and bastnäsite minerals.
- Major deposits occur in China, India, Brazil, USA, Australia, and Sri Lanka.
- It is the second most abundant rare earth element after cerium.
- Physical & Chemical Properties: Appears as a malleable, ductile, silvery-white metal.
Applications
- Essential in manufacturing neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) permanent magnets, among the strongest industrial magnets.
- Widely used in electric vehicle motors, wind turbine generators, electronics, laser systems, and defense equipment.
- Important in optical instruments and power electronics.
Conclusion
With expanding clean energy and advanced-technology needs, neodymium has become indispensable for India’s energy security and strategic autonomy. Strengthening domestic production and reducing import reliance will play a major role in India’s transition to a green economy.
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