Study of on-line analysis using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for controlling lanthanum and neodymium extraction

Many rare-earth extraction processes require frequent control over separation process quality. Ideally, an analysis method for this type should be simple, rapid and reliable. Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry, due to its relative simplicity of instrumentation, speed of analysis, and non-destructive nature, is well suited to this on-line analysis application. In particular, since the radioisotope energy dispersive XRF method eliminates the need to transport samples to a laboratory which houses the X-ray spectrometry, it is most commonly used for on-line analysis of extraction systems. The present paper describes an attempt to type the radioisotope source 241Am XRF on-line analysis arrangement coupled with a personal computer for controlling a lanthanum and neodymium separation process. From the HpGe detector response, a continuous spectral signal is observed during loading of the feed samples. The separation process using countercurrent extraction consists of a 16-stage laboratory mixer-settler, a switching valve, and a pumping system. The performance of this control system is illustrated by extracting La, Nd acidic solutions with 100% tributyl phosphate.