OTT1903
Applications
The separation of rare earth elements is important in applications ranging from chemical analysis (e.g., nuclear forensics and environmental monitoring) and preparative nuclear medicine to the large-scale processing of rare earth-containing minerals.
Target Problems
The separation of rare earth ions, as well as of other metal ions with similar chemical properties, remains a complex and resource-intensive challenge. Many existing separation materials lack sufficient selectivity and efficiency, preventing them from adequately distinguishing between similar ions. This leads to longer processing times, increased operational costs, and less reliable analytical results.
Solution
UWM researchers have developed a microcapsule-based material that helps laboratories and processing facilities achieve faster, more efficient metal ion separations by enhancing mass transport and improving interactions between the metal ions of interest and selective extraction chemistries, thereby increasing separation efficiency versus conventional media for separations.
Key Benefits
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- Greater efficiency than existing materials
- Improved separation of similar material
- Reduced material usage while maintaining higher performance
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About this Technology
This technology utilizes engineered polymer microcapsules with a structured architecture that enhances the transport of metal ions. Each capsule contains a thin, active layer of selective chemistry, allowing metals to interact more efficiently during separation compared to traditional bulk materials. By improving diffusion and maximizing contact between target ions and functional materials, this design overcomes key limitations of conventional systems, namely slow transport and poor selectivity, resulting in faster and more efficient separations.
Stage of Development
The technology has been experimentally demonstrated, including synthesis and performance testing of the microcapsule-based materials.
Partnering Opportunity
We seek partners for applications with companies developing or supplying extraction chromatography materials, as well as analytical laboratories and research institutions interested in advanced metal ion separations.
Intellectual Property (IP)
Patent pending. Protected and managed by the UWM Research Foundation.
Lead Inventors
Mark L. Dietz, UWM Professor, Chemistry & Biochemistry
Shawn C. Salske, UWM PhD Student, Chemistry & Biochemistry