Solvay, Permag and LCM Secure Samarium Supply

On November 12, Solvay announced an agreement with Permag (US) and Less Common Metals (LCM, UK) to secure a reliable supply of rare-earth materials.
Under the partnership, Permag — a global maker of high‑performance magnetic solutions — gains prioritized access to samarium, a rare-earth element used to produce samarium‑cobalt (SmCo) permanent magnets characterized by high coercivity and excellent thermal stability.
SmCo magnets are critical in applications that demand compact, high‑force magnetics at elevated temperatures, including specialized electric motors, aerospace actuators, and precision sensors.
LCM will supply refined samarium and alloy feedstock, while Solvay’s materials and processing expertise will support qualification, consistency and traceability across the chain.
The deal aims to reduce upstream volatility, improve material quality controls, and align alloy specifications with Permag’s magnet manufacturing needs as demand from EV, industrial and defense markets grows.
Market analysts view the move as part of a broader trend: magnet manufacturers forging direct links to rare‑earth producers to secure critical feedstocks and strengthen supply‑chain resilience.