In March 2025, Vulcan Elements officially opened its permanent magnet research and manufacturing facility in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. This plant marked the beginning of a new era for the domestic rare earth supply chain, key to the U.S. defense and technology sector.
The 21,000-square-foot plant is intended for the production of neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnets, essential in military systems, electric vehicles and advanced electronic devices. The facility, in addition to being a commercial production line, will function as a center for applied innovation to optimize processes and reduce environmental impact.
On the inauguration of the rare earth magnet plant
During the inauguration, congressional leaders, state officials and national security experts highlighted the importance of this investment. Congressman Pat Harrigan called the opening a step toward independence from China in the supply of critical components. Dr. Nadia Schadlow, a former national security strategist, underscored the role this plant will play in reducing vulnerabilities in defense programs such as the F-35.
Vulcan Elements positions itself as a key contributor to the Department of Defense’s goals by manufacturing strategic magnets domestically and supporting federal industrial relocation policies. Through proprietary technology and public-private collaboration, the company seeks to decrease foreign dependence and build a resilient manufacturing infrastructure.
A new innovation pole
The choice of the Research Triangle Park is no accident. This region has established itself as a center for next-generation technologies. With the presence of Vulcan, Durham reinforces its position as a strategic point in the domestic production of semiconductorssemiconductors, batteries and industrial magnets.
Beyond production, the company plans to train local talent, collaborate with universities and expand its reach into civilian and military sectors. The goal is to ensure a stable supply of high-performance magnets that will sustain both technological innovation and national security.
Source and internal photo: Vulcan Elements
Main photo: shutterstock
