(368a) Rare Earth Element Separations Using Novel Preorganized Extractants

REE separation remains a challenging problem due to the remarkably similar ionic radii of trivalent lanthanides. Consequently, there is a growing need for novel extractants capable of discriminating between near-adjacent and adjacent lanthanides. In this presentation, we introduce a new extractant based on a preorganized chelate structure. When dissolved in a nonpolar diluent and subjected to selectivity tests, this extractant demonstrates distinct group selectivity among lanthanides, making it a promising tool for REE separation. We will discuss the observed selectivity trends and provide mechanistic insights into its function.