The existing literatures differ to spell out the boundary between LREE and HREE. While some authors describe LREE as La to Gd, some others say La to Sm. Some even prefer to include a term MREE.
Can anyone say which is the right way of classifying?
Good day, hoping that everything is going well.
About your question, I have look that in some petrology articles recently have been using the term MREE, nevertheless, to simplicity I think that the used of LREE and HREE can be enough. Nevertheless, if the work that is on developed, used only MREE or implies a comparation between these three groups, of course it will be needed to used the MREE term. In the other case, in my opinion in petrology-petrogenesis works can be used LREE and HREE terms, such is has been during the last decades.
Here I share some links that can be of interest
- https://energy.virginia.gov/geology/REE.shtml
Chapter Rare Earth Elements
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/rare-earth-element
Hope that this comment could be of help
All the best!
you can deploy Copilot The classification of rare earth elements (REEs) into Light Rare Earth Elements (LREEs) and Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs) has been a subject of debate in scientific literature. Here's a detailed exploration of the topic, supported by recent studies:
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### **Understanding LREE and HREE**
Rare earth elements are typically divided into LREEs and HREEs based on their atomic numbers and electron configurations. LREEs generally include elements from lanthanum (La) to gadolinium (Gd), characterized by smaller atomic weights and unpaired electrons. HREEs, on the other hand, span from terbium (Tb) to lutetium (Lu), featuring larger atomic weights and paired electrons. However, some researchers propose an intermediate category called Medium Rare Earth Elements (MREEs), which includes elements like samarium (Sm) and europium (Eu).
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### **Recent Studies and Insights**
1. **Complexation in Hydrothermal Fluids**:
A study published in *Minerals* (2024) examined the behavior of REEs in hydrothermal systems. It highlighted how ligands such as chloride (Cl⁻) and fluoride (F⁻) influence the transport and deposition of REEs. The research emphasized that LREEs tend to form hydrated ions, while HREEs are more likely to complex with ligands under varying pH conditions.
https://www.mdpi.com/2075-163X/14/6/531
2. **Environmental Implications**:
Research in *Environments* (2024) explored the dispersion and environmental impact of REEs. It noted that LREEs are more reactive and prone to accumulation in soils, whereas HREEs exhibit greater stability. This distinction is crucial for understanding their mobility and toxicity in ecosystems: Origins, Dispersion, and ... - MDPI](https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3298/11/2/24).
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3298/11/2/24
3. **Applications in Modern Technology**:
A comprehensive review in *Resources* (2023) discussed the use of REEs in renewable energy technologies, such as wind turbines and electric vehicles. The study highlighted the criticality of HREEs in high-performance magnets and the broader availability of LREEs for catalysts.
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9276/3/4/614
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### **Significance of Classification**
The classification of REEs into LREEs and HREEs is not merely academic; it has practical implications for mining, processing, and applications. For instance:
- **Mining**: LREEs are more abundant and easier to extract, while HREEs require specialized techniques due to their scarcity.
- **Applications**: HREEs are essential for high-tech applications, including lasers and superconductors, whereas LREEs are widely used in glass manufacturing and petroleum refining.
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These insights underline the importance of a standardized classification system for REEs, tailored to their chemical behavior and industrial relevance. Good luck
Thank you Dr Gawad for your answer and sharing of manuscript links.
Thank you Dr Sanchez for your answer and sharing of manuscript links.
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