10118026OIS(R) as a Sustainable Alternative to Hydrometallurgical ProcessesClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKWe're facing a pressing need to improve and strengthen the supply chain of rare earth elements (REEs) to keep up with growing demands. If we don't address this demand-supply gap for essential REEs by 2035, it will directly impact technologies crucial for everyday life and reduce the impact of climate change, including wind turbines, solar panels, electric vehicles, and electronics. To tackle these challenges, Nanomox and Mkango Rare Earths UK are teaming up for a research and development project. They aim to advance Nanomox's Oxidative Ionothermal Synthesis (OIS(R)) process as a more sustainable alternative to current hydrometallurgical processes for Mkango's permanent magnet recycling. What makes OIS(R) stand out is its use of green catalytic solvents (ionic liquids), which allow processing without volatile and hazardous chemicals. These solvents can be recycled, reducing process waste and associated costs. OIS(R) also enhances cost-effectiveness by recovering and recycling target metals, avoiding the landfilling of solid wastes. Mkango Rare Earths UK is committed to green technology opportunities in the rare earth supply chain, including neodymium (NdFeB) magnet recycling and innovative rare earth alloy, magnet, and separation technologies. The collaborative R&D study aims to validate, at a pilot scale, OIS(R) as a more sustainable process for iron extraction compared to conventional hydrometallurgical processes. This feasibility study will allow Nanomox and Mkango to further develop OIS(R) as a valuable tool for permanent magnet recycling, paving the way for more investment, commercialization, and innovation.