Neodymium

Chemical element symbol is (Nd) and atomic number 60.

Neodymium is a Rare Earth Metal classified in the group the Light Rare Earth Elements (LREE).

Carl Auer Von Welsbach Freiherr discovered neodymium in 1885. The origin of the name its name comes from the Greek words neon and didymos respectively meaning “new” and “twin”. Chemists have long believed that the oxide mixture of praseodymium-Neodymium was a simple body until Carl Auer von Welsbach separated in 1885.

The Neodymium is a silvery metal (Rare Earth) that oxidizes easily in air. Reacts slowly with cold water, but more rapidly with hot water. It ignites and burns easily. Neodymium is produced by electrolysis of halide of Neodymium, which is obtained from monazite sand. Neodymium is used in the manufacture of artificial ruby lasers. Itis also used for the manufacture of ceramic and a special glass with praseodymium. It allows to obtain a purple colour glass and special glass filter IR.

Neodymium is, unlike most metals from the rare earth family, more resistant to corrosion. Its features are it’s easy to ignite and is responsive. As for its main property, it is defined by a strong magnetism.

Today, in Europe, the US and Japan launched many programs to escape the Chinese monopoly. The Europeans for their part are prospecting with France leading in the underwater world of Polynesia.