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Addressing challenges associated with rare earth elements is crucial for the sustainable advancement of magnetic technologies. While rare earths possess unmatched chemical, electronic, optical and magnetic properties, their limited, concentrated and environmentally problematic supply prompts the exploration of alternative materials, innovative processing techniques, and other strategies. Dr. Oliver Gutfleisch, Professor for Functional Materials at the Technische Universität Darmstadt, discussed the state of research with us.

Donald Trump's re-election as President of the United States is likely to usher in a period fraught with new uncertainties for the critical raw materials sector. The combination of a rollback of climate initiatives, a more challenging trade environment, and a focus on national sovereignty in resource management creates a volatile landscape. Rising tensions between trading partners, potential retaliatory actions, and a slowing of the pace in the shift away from fossil fuel dependency could impact global supply chains. As the world grapples with the challenges of economic uncertainty, conflicts, and climate change, the policies Trump has proposed during his campaign are likely to exacerbate existing uncertainties. At the same time, the world needs increased sustainability, reliable markets, and deeper international cooperation in the raw materials sector.