Isocratic anion exchange separations of Group V elements

Abstract

Isocratic anion exchange separations of Group V elements from solutions containing HF have been considered for the development of Db aqueous phase chemistry experiments. Separation of Nb/Ta from an HF/NH4F system has been demonstrated but has limited utility due to interferences with alpha and spontaneous fission (SF) source preparation. The physical parameters associated with ion exchange chromatography have been optimized for the separation and sequential isolation of Pa, Nb and Ta from mixed HF/HNO3 solutions. A suitable procedure incorporating a series of successive chemical separation techniques, i.e. precipitation and ion exchange chromatography, has been suggested for off-line Db characterization studies.