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Technology

Lanthanide Separation Using Non-rigid Ligand

Invention Reference Number

202405696
Chemistry glassware. Image from Envato

The increasing demand for high-purity lanthanides, critical for advanced technologies in electronics, renewable energy, and medical applications, is growing. Current separation methods are inefficient, environmentally harmful, and costly due to the similar chemical properties of lanthanides. This new invention introduces a novel ligand-based approach that significantly enhances the efficiency and selectivity of lanthanide separation, addressing key challenges. The method offers sustainable, eco-friendly solutions, reducing chemical waste and improving overall resource utilization. 

Description

The process involves modifying the donor group configuration of a pre-organized ligand, which allows for precise control over lanthanide separation. This novel approach offers selective binding for light, medium, or heavy lanthanides based on their ionic radii and changes in the solution’s chemical environment. This invention ensures higher purity lanthanides, essential for high-performance applications. By utilizing ligands and adjusting solution acidity, this technique enables effective, selective, and environmentally friendly separation across the entire lanthanide series.

Benefits

  • Improved selectivity: Achieves high purity for light, medium, and heavy lanthanides, essential for advanced technology applications. 
  • Environmental sustainability: Reduces the use of hazardous chemicals and waste production compared to traditional methods. 
  • Cost efficiency: Lowers operational costs by reducing reagent consumption and processing steps. 

Applications and Industries

  • Electronics recycling: Used to recover lanthanides from electronic waste, contributing to high-performance material production for smartphones, tablets, and batteries. 
  • Medical imaging and therapy: Enhances the production and purification of lanthanides for use in advanced medical diagnostics and radiotherapy. 
  • Renewable energy: Facilitates the recycling of permanent magnets used in wind turbines and electric vehicles. 

Contact

To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051.