MISIS scientists develop efficient methods for producing rare earth steel compounds

Scientists at MISIS have patented two methods for more efficient production of rare earth steel (REM) compounds: neodymium carbonate and cerium dioxide. The introduction of these technologies into production will simplify technological processes, reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.

REM compounds are used in the development of new materials and devices with unique properties, including catalysts, ceramic materials, pigments, electronic devices, pharmaceuticals, and others. Traditional methods of producing their compounds are generally based on working with dilute solutions, require elevated temperatures and lengthy processing stages, which reduces productivity and increases the volume of salt effluents.

MISIS scientists proposed obtaining neodymium carbonate by precipitation from concentrated nitric acid neodymium solutions using saturated solutions of ammonium carbonate salts. The new technology makes it possible to form particles that are uniform in shape and size, with a tángéite-type structure, without lengthy recrystallisation and heating.

"The use of a concentrated neodymium solution made it possible to increase process productivity tenfold and reduce waste volume by at least five times compared to known analogues. This opens up the possibility of controlling particle morphology, which is important for the production of catalysts, ceramics, pigments and electronic components," said the patent author, Dr. Elena Bogatyreva, Doctor of Engineering Sciences and Professor of the Department of Non-Ferrous Metals and Gold at MISIS.

MISIS will participate in the International Specialised Exhibition Metallurgy/Litmash.Russia'2026, to be held from May 26 to 28, 2026, at Timiryazev Centre in Moscow.