Neodymium

Neodymium-Iron-Boron magnets were discovered in 1980. It belongs, together with SmCo, to the Rare Earth group of magnets and it is the most modern, currently used,  magnetic material. Produced by first pressing powdered alloys,  followed  by sintering.  Its general composition is Nd2Fe14B and it has superior properties among all magnets.

Cheaper than SmCo, some grades can operate at temperatures of nearly 200°C. However, it is highly susceptible to corrosion and a coating is usually necessary. The most frequently used options are Nickel, Zinc or Epoxy resin. Depending on the application other special protections are possible.