Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Neodymium Magnets: The Ultimate Gift From Nature

A special earthen alloy is used to create neodymium magnets.  No artificial substances are used, which is why these magnets often have “rare earth” as a moniker.  They are magnets that harness the raw power of Mother Nature.  And surprisingly, many of their ingredients consist of metals that nearly everyone has heard of, ranging from iron to boron.  The only metal people may not know about is the neodymium.  It is the primary compound responsible for the magnet’s attraction.


In terms of use, neodymium magnets were first applied to automobiles.  During the 80s, car companies found them to be less expensive than other magnets.  From that point forward, the magnets were used in other applications, ranging from machinery to jewelry.  Inventors and scientists continue to think about even more applications for these incredible magnets.


Consider the Mars Rover, a spacecraft that explores the mysterious planet.  The device’s robotic arm works off of magnetism, as it can draw in particles from the planet’s surface.  These particles are then analyzed by a spectrometer, which is a special type of computer.  When neodymium magnets are used, the Rover can separate dust and other undesirable materials from its particle collection.  In turn, scientists receive a more “genuine” sample when the spacecraft returns to Earth.







Neodymium magnets can also be used in the health field.   Doctors use them in “magnotherapy,” a type of treatment that relies on magnetism to cure certain ailments.  Scientists are uncertain whether magnotherapy has any real benefits, though there are many people who claim such treatments have healed them.  This is why magnetic bracelets, blankets and similar products are becoming more popular.  They are considered the next in thing in the world of holistic medicine.


Finally, neodymium magnets can be used with various household applications.  There are the refrigerator magnets which can organize notes, kids’ pictures and other important papers.  Other household magnets serve a more artistic purpose.  Consider the magnets that can secure things onto a piece of clothing.  Others can be used to clasp together homemade jewelry or certain types of crafts.   And, when these uses are exhausted, these same magnets can be used with other more “creative” applications.  A specific example can be seen when one has to clean a fish tank.  Instead of emptying the whole tank, you can use magnets and a towel to separate the dirt.


In conclusion, neodymium magnets are very versatile.  Their uses in the scientific and industrial world are virtually endless.  However, they are also developing a following in the domestic world.  Such trends will continue on.  As long as neodymium is in the earth, man will always want to take advantage of its superior magnetic powers.  You will want to do the same.  Whether you own a factory owner or a housewife, these magnets will definitely make your life easier.