U.S. scientists develop light sensors that can detect terbium rare earth elements in industrial waste

Researchers funded by the National Science Foundation have developed a luminescence sensor that can detect and measure the presence of a rare earth element called terbium. This element is used to manufacture equipment such as car batteries, smart phones, energy-saving lighting and X-ray equipment.

 

Scientists successfully found this element using a protein known for its excellent binding strength and selectivity to rare earth metals. This method can be used to extract terbium from previously prohibitive environments. The researchers used the sensor to test samples from acid mine waste treatment facilities. The content of terbium in these samples is very low and contains traces of other metals. The performance of the sensor is as good as ICP-MS mass spectrometry, which has long been considered the industry standard.

 

Scientists say that this technological advancement will help establish a domestic supply chain for terbium and other rare earth elements in the United States, and facilitate the location and measurement of the sources of these valuable materials, including industrial waste and manufacturing by-products, such as acid mine drainage and coal. scrap.

The technology involved will also avoid or reduce some environmental problems in the practice of rare earth element collection and detection. Researchers believe that the technology’s portability, economy, and ability to operate under sub-optimal environmental conditions will change the sustainable identification, procurement and management of rare earth metals.