Separation of lanthanides (intro)
f-Block Elements · Chemistry
Study notes
How does ion-exchange separate Nd³⁺ from Pr³⁺? Step 1: Mixture loaded on cation-exchange resin; Ln³⁺ stick to it. Step 2: A complexing agent (citrate/EDTA) washes through. Step 3: Smaller (heavier) Ln³⁺ form slightly stronger complexes → elute at different rates. Step 4: Fractions collected separately — repeated passes give 99.9%+ purity!