Technoeconomic Analysis of Supercritical Fluid Extraction Process for Recycling Rare Earth Elements from Neodymium Iron Boron Magnet

This study is focused on technoeconomics of supercritical fluid extraction (SCFE) technology as applied to the recovery of rare earth elements (REEs) from end-of-life neodymium iron boron magnets. The REEs are in increasingly high demand and due to their limited supply, their recovery from electronic waste is highly promoted. The supercritical fluid extraction (SCFE) process is recognized as a green alternative to hydro and pyrometallurgy to recover REEs from secondary resources. The technical feasibility of SCFE for recycling of REEs from end-of-life neodymium iron boron magnets has been proven in the past. Using a wide range of data sources including laboratory results, literature data, scaling models, scenario analysis, and sensitivity analysis, this study performs a sound economic analysis of the SCFE process at an industrial scale. A detailed estimation of the costs and revenues associated with the process is conducted and the primary factors that affect its profitability are identified. The findings demonstrate that the SCFE of REEs from neodymium iron boron magnets can be economically viable under certain circumstances, with the efficiency of extracting dysprosium and neodymium and the price of their respective oxides being the main drivers of profitability. By providing valuable insights into the technoeconomic feasibility of the SCFE process for REEs recovery, this study informs future research and development activities in the field.