Solvay signs deals to supply rare earth oxides to US magnet makers Noveon Magnetics and Permag

Solvay/La Rochelle rare earth separation

Solvay agreed to supply neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium and terbium oxides to Noveon Magnetics, and samarium oxide to Permag, which Less Common Metals will convert into metal for high-temperature magnets used in defence and nuclear. CEO Philippe Kehren said volumes are limited for now but La Rochelle can raise output quickly.

• NdPr and samarium oxide deliveries were to start soon after signing.
• Dysprosium and terbium supply was expected during 2026, after a few months of development.
• Samarium-cobalt magnets keep working at higher temperatures than neodymium magnets.