Invention Reference Number
This work concerns the separation of rare earth elements (lanthanides). Lanthanides are crucial for various technologies, but their similar chemical properties make separation difficult. This research explores a novel class of flexible amphiphilic chelators (extractants) designed for selective separation of lighter lanthanides from heavier ones, a reversal of typical separation trends.
Description
Lanthanides are vital in modern technology and medicine. Their separation from other elements and each is challenging due to their chemical similarities. Conventional methods exploit the "lanthanide contraction," where heavier lanthanides have smaller ionic radii and stronger bonding. This research investigates flexible amphiphilic ligands, specifically octadecyl acyclopa (ODA), for lanthanide separation. ODA, a linear analog of the cyclic macropa chelator, unexpectedly favors lighter lanthanides. Spectroscopic and computational analyses suggest this reverse selectivity stems from the flexible ligand's inability to optimally coordinate the smaller, heavier lanthanides, despite potentially stronger individual bonds. The study challenges conventional understanding of lanthanide coordination and proposes a new approach to ligand design.
Benefits
- Economical to produce: Easier and more cost-effective to produce compared to macrocyclic derivatives used in rare earth separations.
- Modular design: The extractant is modular, allowing customization of selectivity by modifying pendant chelating arms or lipophilic tails with different functional groups.
- Reduced waste and energy: Reduces the need for multiple separation stages, minimizing waste and energy consumption in the process.
- Improved recycling efficiency: Enables more efficient recovery of light rare earth elements from recycled materials, reducing dependence on primary mining.
Applications and Industries
- Chemical companies: Companies that produce extractants for separations, would benefit from this selective technology for rare earth element extraction.
- Mining companies: This technology offers a more efficient way to extract valuable materials from mining sources.
- Recycling industries: Companies recycling electronics, hard drives, or magnets can use this technology to selectively extract valuable light rare earth elements, making the recycling process more efficient.
Contact:
To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051.
