10116683Strontium Alternative Magnet Innovation Consortium - SrAMICClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKThe Strontium Alternative Magnet Innovation Consortium (SrAMIC) will investigate the potential for a UK domestic circular supply chain for high strength strontium ferrite magnets (also known as ceramic magnets) as an alternative to, or to complement, the rare earth permanent magnets used in electric traction motors and in renewable power generation. Hard ferrite magnets are one of the most widely used magnetic materials, found in a range of applications including electric motors, generators, and speakers. Strontium ferrite magnets, which combine strontium carbonate and ferric oxide (rust), are the strongest type of ferrite magnet. Strontium ferrite magnets have a proven and easily scalable manufacturing process while offering reliable performance and resistance to corrosion at a relatively low-cost compared to other magnets. UK universities Cranfield, Sheffield, and Newcastle have already developed and showcased ferrite motor designs. Established manufacturers such as Hitachi Metals/Proterial, TDK, and General Motors are already investigating and integrating ferrite magnets into their designs. SrAMIC project supporters Greenspur based in Teeside are already integrating ferrite magnets into their wind turbine generators. As well as their lower cost, strontium ferrite magnets have lesser environmental impacts from processing, such as no associated radioactivity, and are less prone to external market pressures, when compared to REPMs. Strontium ferrite magnets could offer a viable substitute in a range of applications especially where functionality is less mass critical. SrAMIC are investigating whether the raw materials for strontium ferrite magnets can be sourced within the UK from readily available scrap steel, strontium deposits, and mine wastes. SrAMIC are developing innovative methods to bypass traditional carbon intensive processing routes of strontium ores. Minviro are undertaking a life cycle assessment (LCA) for SrAMIC to determine whether their approach to strontium ferrite magnet production is more environmentally friendly than both current ferrite and REPM production methods; whilst at the same time developing a unique geochemical 'fingerprinting' technique to trace ferrites back to their source. Contact: info@sramic.co.uk