Extraction and separation of rare earth elements using LN resins in hydrochloric acid

Abstract

The separation of the rare earth elements is essential for numerous scientific applications but remains a significant challenge due to the nearly identical chemical properties of the adjacent lanthanide elements. Eichrom’s LN series of extraction chromatographic resins feature organophosphorus extractants and are widely used to achieve adjacent lanthanide separations. While extensive characterization of these resins has been completed for nitric acid matrices, the use of hydrochloric acid is preferred for a variety of applications. The extraction of the rare earth elements, La–Lu and Y, has been characterized on LN and LN2 resins in hydrochloric acid via batch uptake and column chromatographic studies.