neodínium

Neodymium (Nd), atomic number 60, is a soft, silvery-white metal in the lanthanide series. It is relatively abundant in the Earth's crust and is typically extracted from minerals such as bastnäsite and monazite. In compounds, neodymium most often exhibits the +3 oxidation state.

Neodymium metal is reactive and tarnishes rapidly in air, forming a protective oxide layer. It is soft and can be cut with a knife. Its most notable property is its magnetic behavior: when alloyed with iron and boron (NdFeB), it forms some of the strongest permanent magnets available, used in a wide range of electronics and motors. In addition to magnets, neodymium is used as a dopant in laser materials, most famously in neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers, which are employed in manufacturing, medicine, and research.

Applications extend to magnetic devices and optics. NdFeB magnets are essential in headphones, hard disk drives, wind turbines, cordless tools, and automotive components. Nd:YAG lasers serve in materials processing, laser surgery, and precision drilling. Neodymium compounds also find uses in glass coloration, phosphors, and various specialty glass and ceramic products.

Occurrence and history: Neodymium was isolated in 1885 by Karl Auer von Welsbach. The name derives from Greek neos meaning new and didymos meaning twin. The element is found in minerals such as bastnäsite and monazite and is recovered as a byproduct of rare earth processing.

Safety: Handling neodymium compounds requires standard chemical safety practices. Dust can be harmful if inhaled; use appropriate ventilation and personal protective equipment. In general, elements and compounds should be stored and handled according to material safety data sheets.