Health Hazards
Neodymium, though it is a very useful element when used for external purposes, is somewhat dangerous once ingested. Neodymium is not seen often in the human body and has not specific use in any biological cycles. However, it can still be harmful to the body. Neodymium dusts and salts can be irritating to eye tissue. Neodymium salts, if ingested, can be slightly toxic if soluble and non toxic if not soluble. Also, if Neodymium is inhaled, it can cause a lung embolism that could be anything from a fat globule to an air bubble to a blood clot. Similarly, long-term exposure to the element, especially in working environment, can have harmful effects to one’s liver if it accumulates. In addition to the effects caused by elemental neodymium itself, neodymium magnets also have some health hazards. Since they are the strongest permanent magnets, they are very strong and can result in broken bones and tissue damage if any small appendages, such as fingers or toes among others, get caught between magnets of even a relatively small size.