The use of H-form clinoptilolite to preconcentrate trace amounts of Nd(III) from aqueous solution under dynamic conditions

Abstract

Rare earth elements (REE) are vital in the industry, particularly in the manufacturing of high-tech products. REE are emitted in enormous amounts into the environment as a result of their increased use in industry. The sorption technique is one of the most efficient ways to extract rare earth elements in low quantities. The results of a dynamic study of the sorption capabilities of the H-form of Transcarpathian clinoptilolite towards Nd(III) are presented in this work. X-ray diffraction, FT-IR, zeta potential analysis, and potentiometric titration were used to analyze the sorbent. The breakthrough capacity of H-clinoptilolite toward Nd(III) was 3.1 mg g−1 under ideal conditions (pH = 7.5, sorbent thermal treatment temperature: t = 150 °C). The desorption efficiency of Nd(III) has been investigated using acids and different mineral salt solutions. The optimum desorbing agent appeared to be acidified (pH 4) 1 M KNO3 solutions. A method for preconcentrating trace amounts of Nd(III) using acid-modified Transcarpathian clinoptilolite in a solid-phase extraction mode is proposed, followed by spectrophotometric measurement of this rare earth element.