Magnet
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| Names | |
|---|---|
| IUPAC name
N/A
| |
| Other names
Neodymium magnet, neo-magnet
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| Properties | |
| Nd2Fe14B + various trace materials | |
| Molar mass | 1081.15 g/mol |
| Appearance | Metallic gray alloy |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 7.4 g/cm^3 |
| Insoluble | |
| Solubility | Insoluble in organic solvents |
| Hazards | |
| Safety data sheet | Sigma-Aldrich (hydrate) |
| Related compounds | |
| Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa). | |
| Infobox references | |
Neodymium magnets are a commonly-encountered form of magnetic material that are used by amateur chemists to prepare neodymium compounds.
Contents
Properties
Chemical
The alloy inside the magnets is primarily composed of macroscopic Nd2Fe14B grains, surrounded by a Nd-rich matrix layer (~90% Nd). For amateur chemist purposes, they can be assumed to be composed entirely of Nd2Fe14B alloy.
Neodymium magnets are plated in a oxidation-resistant layer of copper, nickel, and/or gold, with possible tin and mercury additives. When this layer is broken, they will react vigorously with acids to produce corresponding neodymium and iron salts, as well as boron or boric acid depending on the acid chosen.
2 Nd2Fe14B + 35 H2SO4 -> 4 Nd2(SO4)3 + 28 FeSO4 + 2 H3BO3 + 3 SO2 + 35 H2
Physical
Neodymium magnets are a dark gray, grainy sintered alloy coated with a mechanically polished, electroplated layer of protective metals such as nickel, copper, tin, and/or gold.
Projects
Handling
Safety
Neodymium is a heavy metal, and as such is toxic if ingested. Standard gloves should be safe to handle neodymium compounds with.
Storage
Neodymium magnets, if magnetized, should be stored in soft foam padding to avoid injury. When demagnetized, they are essentially a lump of metal and can be stored safely in any container.
Disposal
Neodymium magnets, if of considerable size and/or magnetic strength, should be demagnetized in an oven above their Curie temperature before disposing.
