Rare earth elements (REE) are a group of valuable metals with growing demand for many high-tech applications, but their supply is under stress in the light of shifting market dynamics. Traditional REE sources (i.e., mineral ores) require large capital investments and their refinement has been a source of significant environmental impact. This work investigated the adsorption performance and REE selectivity of polymer-resin particles functionalized with <i>N,N</i>-bis(phosponomethyl)glycine ligands (BPG). Separation factors, a measure of adsorbent material selectivity, were determined by conducting multi-element competitive adsorption isotherm experiments and the BPG-functionalized resins were found to be highly selective, with separation factors for REE over other metals up to 700 times higher than non-functionalized aminated resins. Resin performance was also measured in fixed-bed adsorption columns. Breakthrough of REE from columns packed with BPG-functionalized resins was influenced by influent concentration and flow rate. The influence of column geometry on REE breakthrough was studied and superficial fluid velocities of 0.4 m/hour were found to be suitable for operation. This work provides new insight into the operational performance of novel functionalized adsorbents which could be used to augment existing REE supplies and offset environmentally harmful production methods.<br/>

Recovery of rare earth elements from industrial waste using selective solid phase extraction

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.