Abstract

AbstractFactors affecting the separation of both Sm and Eu from other rare earths, after acid processing of monazite, by sodium amalgam are: Increasing extraction in the order Sm > Eu > La at all pH values, preferably at pH 3.5 with an enrichment ratio of 14:9:1; 0.26% sodium amalgam giving optimal results, preferably on cooling nearer to zero temperature. The pollution by La of separated Sm or Eu could be masked by sodium chloride addition in up to 0.2 N. Buffering by acetate was proved to be indispensable and preferentially in no less than 64 ml glacial acetic acid/l feed. Concerning the total lanthanons concentration, a 35 gm/l feed is recommended. When working on alkali by‐produced rare earths liquors, good enhancement in both recoveries and purity was achieved by use of dodecylamine dispersed sodium amalgam.

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