Scientists at the University of New Hampshire are using artificial intelligence to dramatically speed up the search for new magnetic materials. Their approach has produced a searchable database containing 67,573 magnetic materials, including 25 previously unknown compounds that retain their magnetism at high temperatures, a key requirement for many real-world applications.

“By accelerating the discovery of sustainable magnetic materials, we can reduce dependence on rare earth elements, lower the cost of electric vehicles and renewable energy systems, and strengthen the U.S. manufacturing base,” said Suman Itani, lead author of the study and a doctoral student in physics.

A bottleneck in magnetic materials
The new resource, called the Northeast Materials Database, is designed to make it easier for researchers to explore the vast range of magnetic materials that underpin modern technology, from smartphones and medical devices to power generators and electric vehicles.

Today’s most powerful permanent magnets depend heavily on rare earth elements that are costly, largely imported, and increasingly difficult to secure. Despite the fact that scientists know many magnetic compounds exist, none have yet replaced rare-earth-based magnets in widespread use, creating a major bottleneck in materials innovation.