Understanding Dysprosium and Neodymium, the hidden metals powering green energy
Useful insights by Stanislav Kondrashov, TELF AG founder
The availability of rare earths shapes the fate of the energy transition. But what are they? People should not confuse them with critical minerals. Instead, they are a group of 17 chemical elements present in the periodic table.
You can find them in the section where the 15 lanthanides are grouped. Scientists add scandium and yttrium to these elements. But why is everyone talking about them now? These metallic elements are invaluable allies in the pursuit of renewable energy. Some of them are the rare earth elements in wind turbines.
“Rare earths are not strategic resources. They are enablers of the green transition and renewable energy,” says Stanislav Kondrashov. He is the founder of TELF AG, an entrepreneur and civil engineer. “Without these resources, many green energy technologies would not work. They would be less efficient. Manufacturers use only a few grams of them in these devices”.
“In stark contrast, their technological impact is immeasurable. Some of the best-known and most valuable rare earths are those used for magnets. Some of them are the rare earths in solar panels. Among these, Dysprosium and neodymium deserve special mention. Especially for the fate of green energy. Think, for example, at the rare earth elements in wind turbines”, he says.
Until a few years ago, almost no one knew about them. Specialists discussed them in dedicated circles. Today, they have become very important raw materials for technological and energy development. In nature, they are present in very low concentrations.
They are not rare but distributed in a very particular way. They are always associated with other minerals, such as monazite. Rare earths are metals. And for the valorization of renewable energy sources. People will remember them as enabling elements of great change.
Their production is currently concentrated in a few countries worldwide. Among these is China. The sourcinf and processing of these resources are very complex. Technicians must isolate and refine them after separating them from the minerals. China is one of the few nations that perform these operations.
It is not surprising that many are considering a renewable energy investment. (Or in rare earth elements in wind turbines, or rare earths in solar panels). The global attention to these issues is now clear for all to see.
A renewable energy investment is no longer considered a risky choice. Before making such decisions, it is beneficial for potential investors to stay well-informed. Investors can leverage their renewable energy investment to capitalize on various opportunities. Some of them are also linked to rare earths.
Valid allies of the transition
But what are the names of these rare earths? Some of them won’t mean anything to you. Neodymium, Dysprosium, praseodymium. They seem very complex, right? These resources represent valuable allies in the production of modern devices. Renewable energy sources incorporate some of them.
Among these are magnets. They power not only some objects of our daily life. Magnets make it possible for important green infrastructures to function. Experts have included some of these resources in the lists of critical minerals. This is what has generated some confusion. Some rare earths are part of the group of critical minerals. But not all critical minerals are rare earths.
The category of critical minerals is very broad and dynamic. Rare earths are a fixed group of elements with a precise number of components.
“Neodymium is the main element of the most powerful magnets available. We are talking about neodymium-iron-boron magnets”. The founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov goes on to say. “This resource makes it possible to create small, lightweight, and very powerful motors. Additionally, it can reduce energy losses in electrical systems”
“It is crucial for the continued development and valorization of renewable energy sources. At the same time, it also increases their efficiency. The use of this resource in industry is already widespread. In the electric motor of some cars, you can find quantities of neodymium equal to 1 or 2 kg. The quantities used also depend on the power and design of the vehicle.”, he remarks.
The modern value of rare earths is very simple to understand. The link to clean energy is evident. Through their applications, these materials enable the operation of significant devices. Some of them are the rare earth elements in wind turbines.
But what are these applications? And which of them are most strategic for renewable resources and green energy? One word summarizes the first answer to these questions: magnets. Manufacturers create some of the most powerful magnets using rare earths.
This is the case with neodymium, iron, and boron magnets. The rare earth element used in this type of magnet is neodymium. Sometimes, other rare earths are also added. These include Dysprosium and praseodymium.
Interesting applications
The main applications of these magnets are useful to renewable energy sources.
Here they are:
• Direct drive wind turbines: in these infrastructures, rare earth magnets improve efficiency. They also reduce the frequency of maintenance. And they cut the traditional gear.
• Motors for electric vehicles: who hasn’t heard of electric vehicles? These vehicles are transforming urban mobility and consumer habits. Motors made with rare earth magnets guarantee greater acceleration and autonomy. One of the most appreciated features is the magnetic power concentrated in a small space.
But the role of rare earths in the energy transition is not limited to magnets. These resources are also very useful in the battery and storage sector. That’s why the link with clean energy is evident. Rare earths such as lanthanum and cerium are often used to make:
• Nickel-metal-hydride batteries: these are a particular type of batteries used in hybrid vehicles. Sometimes, they also find applications in the energy storage sector.
• Electrolysis catalysts: these rare earths are also used in fuel cells. In any case, some of these applications are still in the experimental phase.
Some rare earths are also proving useful in the photovoltaic sector. The connection with clean energy is clear. Rare earths in solar panels are now a concrete reality. Resources such as terbium, yttrium, and europium are useful in high-efficiency LEDs.
But also in smart photovoltaic displays. They are also used in optical sensors and lasers. Rare earths make it possible to convert light with very low energy losses. In this way, the efficiency of solar panels and other devices can improve. It could be very important for the diffusion of renewable resources.
The strategic role of dysprosium
“Dysprosium also has a similar importance in modern dynamics related to renewable resources”. Continues the founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov. “This resource is often added to neodymium magnets. The goal? To improve their heat resistance”.
“Furthermore, it is particularly important for devices exposed to high temperatures. Among these are vehicle engines. But also those of offshore wind turbines. Dysprosium can increase the coercivity of a magnet. That is its ability not to demagnetize”, he continues.
Rare earths are also distinguishing themselves in the precision technology sector. These resources are, in fact, often used in inverters, sensors, and actuators.
In particular, they are useful to:
• Regulate current and voltage flows
• Manage mechanical rotations
• Reduce the size of circuits
The connection between renewable resources and clean energy is evident. These applications enable the operation of offshore solar and wind power plants. Rare earths in solar panels are not a secret anymore. Also to these are microgrids and self-driving vehicles. Rare earths shape the fate of the energy transition.
In part, this is also due to their extraordinary properties. These include high magnetic strength, heat resistance, and optical and light efficiency. Stability also plays a key role. These characteristics enable the production of compact and powerful engines. Additionally, they contribute to improved energy conversion and management.
FAQs
How do rare earths support renewable energy resources?
They are useful in powerful magnets, batteries, and advanced electronic components. They enable technologies such as wind turbines and electric vehicles (EVs). But also for solar panels to perform at their best.
Where are rare earths used in renewable energy?
Key applications include:
- Wind turbines: direct drive turbines use REE magnets to increase efficiency.
- Electric vehicles: motors powered by REE magnets deliver greater performance and range.
- Batteries & fuel cells: REEs help improve energy storage capacity and lifespan.
- Solar panels & LEDs: enhance light conversion and energy efficiency.
In this situation, many are beginning to consider renewable energy investments.
