Reduction of Yb(III) to Yb(II) to separate Yb from other lanthanides

Author

Rebecca Joan Mack

Date of Award

12-2000

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Chemistry

Major Professor

George K. Schweitzer

Committee Members

M. J. Sepaniak, John Turner

Abstract

The electrolytic reduction of Yb(III) to Yb(II) using a Pb cathode was performed in various media. The effects of the medium, current and pH on the formation of Yb(II) were studied. The best experimental conditions for the reduction of Yb(III) to Yb(II) and the subsequent precipitation of YbSO₄ were found to be ~0.11M YbCl₃*6H₂O in 1.1 ethanol dioxane, direct current of -20 mA and a pH of approximately 2.0, followed by precipitation with 3.0M (NH₄)2SO₄ Under these conditions, a maximum of 30% of the Yb(II) could be removed from the system.

Recommended Citation

Mack, Rebecca Joan, "Reduction of Yb(III) to Yb(II) to separate Yb from other lanthanides. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 2000.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/9431