Hahn R, Ihne T, Baader M, Franke J, Risch F (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2026
Original Authors: Roman Hahn, Thorsten Ihne, Marcel Baader, Jörg Franke, Florian Risch
Book Volume: 140
Pages Range: 527-532
DOI: 10.1016/j.procir.2026.05.089
By 2035, it is projected that up to 27 million electric vehicles (EVs) could reach end-of-life (EoL) status worldwide each year, driven by the increasing market share of EVs and their average lifespan. This development represents not only a challenge in terms of resource management but also an opportunity for material recovery and circular value creation. EV traction drives, particularly those utilizing permanent magnet (PM) synchronous machines, contain substantial amounts of rare earth (RE) elements such as neodymium and dysprosium, which are essential for their high efficiency and power density. These elements are often considered as critical raw materials due to their limited availability, geopolitical concentration, and the high environmental cost of primary extraction. To mitigate supply risks and support circular economy strategies, the recovery and recycling of RE magnets from EoL traction drives is becoming increasingly important. However, the magnet fixation methods currently used, typically involving strong adhesives, present significant challenges for disassembly and recycling. Induction-based thermal demagnetization has high potential for the recycling process, as it allows for the controlled degradation of the adhesives and the extraction of magnets from PM rotors. Building on prior experimental studies that demonstrate the feasibility of inductive heating for demagnetizing entire rotors, this paper presents an expanded investigation and systematic optimization of the process. The paper analyzes the influence of process parameters such as generator power, kinematic speed, target temperature and heating time on the heating behavior and demagnetization efficiency. The methodology aims to establish robust process windows for industrial implementation, while preventing structural degradation of the laminated core, which would complicate the subsequent magnet extraction. The approach aligns with emerging regulatory frameworks such as the European Critical Raw Materials Act and the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive, reinforcing its relevance in shaping a resilient circular economy in the EV sector.
APA:
Hahn, R., Ihne, T., Baader, M., Franke, J., & Risch, F. (2026). Systematic Optimization of the Induction Based Thermal Demagnetization Process for Rare Earth Magnet Recovery from PM Rotors. Procedia CIRP, 140, 527-532. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.procir.2026.05.089
MLA:
Hahn, Roman, et al. "Systematic Optimization of the Induction Based Thermal Demagnetization Process for Rare Earth Magnet Recovery from PM Rotors." Procedia CIRP 140 (2026): 527-532.
BibTeX: Download