A method of recovering a rare earth element. The method comprises dissolving a rare earth element magnetic material in a dissolution organic solvent and a -diketone compound to form a dissolved rare earth element mixture. A rare earth element of the rare earth element magnetic material and the -diketone compound are reacted to form a -diketonate chelate complex and the dissolution organic solvent is removed. The -diketonate chelate complex is removed using a separation organic solvent, and the -diketonate chelate complex is recovered. Additional methods are also disclosed.

Leaching aids, for example, when present in a leaching solution, and methods of using the leaching aids. The leaching aids can include one or a combination of compounds. The method of using the leaching aids can include a process of recovering metal from ore, for example, a process involving heap leaching, solvent extraction and electrowinning.

A method of recovering a rare earth element. The method comprises dissolving a rare earth element magnetic material in a dissolution organic solvent and a -diketone compound to form a dissolved rare earth element mixture. A rare earth element of the rare earth element magnetic material and the -diketone compound are reacted to form a -diketonate chelate complex and the dissolution organic solvent is removed. The -diketonate chelate complex is removed using a separation organic solvent, and the -diketonate chelate complex is recovered. Additional methods are also disclosed.

Leaching aids, for example, when present in a leaching solution, and methods of using the leaching aids. The leaching aids can include one or a combination of compounds. The method of using the leaching aids can include a process of recovering metal from ore, for example, a process involving heap leaching, solvent extraction and electrowinning.