A solid-state “atomic channel” for separating rare earth elements
4 hours ago
- Researchers developed a cleaner method to separate rare earth elements using layered manganese oxide channels, avoiding toxic chemicals.
- The method exploits differences in water shell size around rare earth ions, with heavier elements binding more tightly.
- Adding electric current and magnesium ions improved separation, achieving 97% pure neodymium after two cycles.
- The process uses water and electricity instead of organic solvents, potentially enabling local processing of rare earth ores.