Researchers from Georgia Institute of Technology have made a groundbreaking discovery by achieving a 5+ oxidation state for the lanthanide element praseodymium, a feat that had been predicted since the 1890s but never observed until now.

This finding has significant implications, as different oxidation states of an element can exhibit unique chemical and physical properties, potentially leading to new applications in various fields.

Henry 'Pete' La Pierre, the study's corresponding author and an associate professor at Georgia Tech, noted that discovering a new oxidation state can unlock new applications and technologies, similar to the impact of plutonium's discovery.

The study, titled 'Praseodymium in the Formal +5 Oxidation State,' was published in Nature Chemistry and involved collaboration with researchers from the University of Iowa and Washington State University.

This breakthrough could revolutionize the understanding of lanthanides' chemical and physical properties, which are crucial for various technologies, including medical imaging and electronics.

The research may lead to advancements in rare-earth mining, quantum technology, and the development of new electronic devices, enhancing the technical applications of lanthanides.

Improving the separation and recycling processes of lanthanides is essential due to the increasing global demand for rare earth elements, which are often found mixed together in minerals and are difficult to mine efficiently.

The discovery of praseodymium's 5+ oxidation state opens up new possibilities for the chemical and physical properties of lanthanides, paving the way for advancements in various technological applications.

This breakthrough addresses a longstanding mystery in the periodic table regarding the extraction and purification of rare earth elements, which are critical for modern technologies such as medical imaging, smartphones, and missiles.

The study was supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy, highlighting the significant potential impact of lanthanide research on technological development.

Currently, the commercial use of lanthanides is primarily in the 3+ oxidation state, which limits their magnetic and optical properties, making this discovery particularly relevant.

With rising global demand for rare earth elements, enhancing their supply through improved separation methods is crucial for meeting technological needs.