Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

Solvay Secures US Rare Earth Supply with Permag and LCM Deal

Key highlights
  • Solvay partners with Permag and LCM to secure Samarium supply.
  • Samarium is sourced from Solvay's La Rochelle facility.
  • The agreement aims to meet demand over the next 3–5 years.
  • LCM provides metallization process expertise.

Partnership Overview

Solvay has entered a strategic agreement with Permag and Less Common Metals (LCM) to ensure a reliable supply of rare earth materials, specifically Samarium, essential for high-performance magnets.

Supply Chain Details

Samarium will be sourced from Solvay's facility in La Rochelle, France, where the company utilizes its mixed rare earth concentrates and separation technologies to produce pure Samarium oxides.

Industry Expertise

LCM contributes its expertise in metallization processes, strengthening the partnership's ability to meet demand over the next 3–5 years.

Applications and Impact

This agreement supports the availability of critical materials for permanent magnets, which are vital components in electric vehicle motors, renewable energy, advanced electronics, and defense systems.