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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

A PROCESS FOR SEPARATING THORIUM, CERIUM AND RARE EARTHS FROM MIXTURES OF THEIR OXIDES OR HYDROXIDES

Patent ·
OSTI ID:4117789

A simple economical method for separating cerium from thorium and rare earths is outlined in which the separation of cerium and thorium is accomplished after, and not prior to, the separation of rare earths from cerium. The method consists of oxidizing the cerium by heating in air, selectively dissolving the rare earths, dissolving the residue in acid under reducing conditions, and selectively precipitating the thorium with alkali. This method is especially useful for separating a mixture of hydroxides or oxides obtained by alkaline attack of monazite, and an example of this method is given using such a mixture. (D.L.C.)

Research Organization:
Originating Research Org. not identified
NSA Number:
NSA-15-007424
OSTI ID:
4117789
Report Number(s):
GB 855481
Country of Publication:
United Kingdom
Language:
English