Anion-exchange isolation of rare-earth elements from apatite minerals in methanol-nitric acid medium

Abstract

Batch distribution coefficients, K d, of rare-earth elements (REE) and other elements were determined radiochemically for a strongly basic nitrate anionexchange resin Dowex 1-X8 100–200 mesh, in nitric acid-methanol media of varying composition. This method was developed for the separate recovery of REE from apatite minerals. Calcium and other common elements of the apatite are eluted by a 5% (v/v) 7 M nitric acid-95% methanol mixture, while the REE are retained. The REE are recovered and separated into two fractions; the heavier REE by elution with a 45% nitric acid-55% methanol mixture, and a very clean fraction of La, Ce, Pr, Nd by elution with water.