Design for Disassembly: Circular Solutions for E-Motors

EV motors rely on neodymium-iron-boron (Nd-Fe-B) magnets, critical for performance but associated with environmental impact, supply risks, and growing demand. Current disassembly methods, such as shredding and high-temperature processing, destroy material value, consume significant energy, prevent reuse and are rarely used in practice. 

The project addresses these challenges through two approaches. First, it develops motor designs that enable automated, non-destructive disassembly, allowing controlled access to magnets and components. Second, it creates adhesive systems with debonding-on-demand (DoD) functionality, enabling selective release of magnets below critical temperatures without damaging materials or coatings. 

An interdisciplinary consortium, including RISE, Chalmers, TRATON, ELANTAS, ABB, Bakker Magnetics and SEEL, combines academic expertise with industry relevance, ensuring solutions are validated under industrial conditions. The project aims to demonstrate scalable pathways for magnet recovery without loss of performance, supporting circularity, resource security, and sustainable electrification in Europe.