2024 AIChE Annual Meeting
(382i) Understanding the Electronic Structure of Nb and Ta to Design Sustainable Separation of the Chemical Twins
Author
The separation and purification of niobium and tantalum, which co-occur in natural sources, is difficult due to their similar physical and chemical properties. The current industrial method for separating Ta/Nb mixtures uses an energy-intensive process with caustic and toxic conditions. It is of interest to develop alternative, fundamental methodologies for the purification of these technologically important metals. In this poster I will discuss how detailed understanding of the electronic structure of these metals can guide the development of sustainable separation techniques.