Neodymium

India is planning to increase its neodymium production by nine times, reaching 500 tons by the end of FY27.

About Neodymium

Neodymium (symbol Nd, atomic number 60) is a rare earth element belonging to the lanthanide group. It was discovered in 1885 by Karl Auer in Vienna. It is the second most abundant of the rare earth elements after cerium. It is found in minerals such as monazite and bastnasite. Major deposits are located in Brazil, China, USA, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia.

Properties

Neodymium is a ductile and malleable silvery white metal. It oxidizes readily in air to form neodymium oxide (Nd₂O₃), which easily spalls, exposing the metal to further oxidation. It must be stored in a vacuum or inert atmosphere. It reacts with most mineral acids except hydrofluoric acid (HF), in which it forms a protective layer of trifluoride (NdF₃).

Applications

It is a critical element in the global rare-earth magnet industry. It plays a key role in electric vehicles, clean energy technologies, and defense systems. It is used in optical and electrical devices such as lasers, wind turbines, and electronic gadgets.

Significance for India

The increase in production will reduce import dependence on China, promote Atmanirbhar Bharat, and support India’s clean energy and defense sectors.