Magnetic techniques are the cornerstone of material manipulation and over the last 30 years these methods have undergone dramatic developments. Advantages of magnetic methods of material treatment are numerous and the spectrum of applications of this technique is formidable. Numerous technological milestones and key drivers of innovations in magnetic separation have resulted in a wide range of magnetic techniques that are available for application in various industries. This paper reviews the current status of magnetic separation and outlines the future trends in research and development. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.