Scientists at Georgia Tech have discovered a new chemical state for praseodymium, a rare earth metal, which could lead to technological advances and more efficient mining methods.
Rare earth elements, difficult to separate due to their similarities, are crucial for modern technologies due to their unique properties like magnetism and optics.
The new 5+ oxidation state for praseodymium, observed by researchers, could pave the way for novel magnetic and optical behaviors that could enhance electronic devices and quantum technologies.
The discovery could potentially make rare earth mining and recycling cleaner, cheaper, and more sustainable while allowing for new possibilities in using these elements.