MSE
graduate student research puts rare earth magnets to
work
Nathaniel Oster, a PhD student
in materials science and engineering, is part of a
research group developing rare earth magnets that
can be used at temperatures around 200 degrees
centigrade. The work has important implications for
the auto industry because in electric motors, a
stronger magnet facilitates greater efficiency. The
magnets currently used in electric, hybrid, and
experimental fuel cell cars lose about half of their
power when they are heated to 250 degrees
Fahrenheit.
The characteristics of rare
earth magnets, based on a mixture of neodymium,
iron, and boron, can be altered by adding other
elements. Challenges include finding an alloy with
desired properties, producing a magnet powder, and
consolidating the powder.
Working under Dr. Iver
Anderson, adjunct professor and senior metallurgist
in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Ames Laboratory,
Nathaniel is part of a research group of three
principal investigators, two additional PhDs
conducting data collection, and an assistant
scientist who holds a master’s degree. They are
working on metallic “super glue,” seeking to add
metals to get better adhesion without detracting
from the magnetism. This Ames Laboratory project is
sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy through
EERE (Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy) and
the Freedom Car (hybrid electric car) project.
A second project Nathaniel is
working on relates to isotropy of powders. His
research group is working on developing anisotropic
powders, which magnetize in only one direction. The
resulting magnets are much stronger. This research
is tied closely to the automotive industry. These
magnets will improve the efficiency of high torque
electric motors, particularly necessary for hybrid
and electric cars.
Being affiliated with the Ames
Laboratory provides excellent opportunities for
Nathaniel as he performs cutting-edge research on
materials. The research is well funded, facilities
are excellent, Nathaniel has access to research
instruments not commonly found on a college campus,
and his work is conveniently located on campus.
Nathaniel’s future offers
several options. He might pursue a postdoctoral
position, choose an industrial experience with a
company that produces magnets, or become a professor
at a large research university.
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