Episode 28
The magnet chokepoint: why the global economy depends on rare earths
Rare earth magnets power modern life, but with supply chains 90% concentrated in China, is electrification at risk?
Advertisement
In today’s episode, we’re joined by Tom Grainger, Commercial Vice President at Niron Magnetics, a company developing the first new high-performance permanent magnet material in over 40 years.
Permanent magnets are inside almost everything, from electric vehicles and air conditioners to data centers and defense systems. Yet more than 90% of the rare-earth supply chain behind them is concentrated in China.
We explore why that matters, how iron nitride could offer a rare-earth-free alternative, and whether magnets are quietly becoming as strategically important as semiconductors in the race to electrify everything.
Also, don’t forget to subscribe to IE+ for premium insights and exclusive content!
Meet the Host
Christopher McFadden
Host
Christopher graduated from Cardiff University in 2004 with a Master’s Degree in Geology. Since then, he has worked exclusively within the Built Environment, Occupational Health and Safety, and Environmental Consultancy industries.
He is a qualified and accredited Energy Consultant, Green Deal Assessor, and Practitioner member of IEMA. Chris’s main interests range from Science and engineering to military and ancient history, as well as politics and Philosophy.
Meet the Speakers
Tom Grainger
Commercial Vice President at Niron Magnetics
Tom Grainger is Commercial Vice President at Niron Magnetics, where he has been part of the company’s growth since 2017, helping guide it from early-stage research to commercial production.
His work spans corporate strategy, partnerships, fundraising, and government engagement, including relationships with the U.S. Department of Energy.
Before joining Niron, Tom worked across engineering, strategy, and consulting roles, including at Boston Consulting Group. He holds degrees in Mechatronics Engineering and Business Administration from Western University.
