Sequential separation of ultra-trace actinides and lanthanides with an anion-exchange column

Miyamoto, Yutaka   ; Yasuda, Kenichiro   

A technique of sequential separation for Am, Pu, U, Th, Pb, and lanthanides using an anion-exchange column and mixed acids media, including highly pure hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, acetic acid, and hydrofluoric acid was developed. The elements of interest were sequentially and perfectly separated by using an automatic system within 6.5 hours. Americium was completely separated from lanthanides without any special chelate reagents by changing the component ratios of highly pure acids including acetic acid, hydrochloric acid, and nitric acid. This simple technique has excellent ability to separate actinides from the matrix elements including lanthanides.