The process of separating rhenium from molybdenum is a complicated one. The two elements have almost identical chemical and physical properties, making it very difficult to separate them. This article will look at the steps involved in the process and why it is so difficult.
The first step in separating rhenium from molybdenum is to dissolve the two elements in a solvent. This is done by adding an acidic solution to a solution containing the two elements. This then breaks down the bond between the two elements and allows them to be separated.
Once the two elements have been separated, the next step is to purify the rhenium. This is done by removing any impurities, such as sulfur, arsenic, and other metallic elements. This process can take several hours depending on the quality of the rhenium.
Once the rhenium has been purified, it can then be separated from the molybdenum. This is typically done using an electrolysis process, which involves passing an electric current through the solution. This causes the rhenium to form a solid, which can then be removed from the solution.
Once the rhenium has been separated, the molybdenum can then be further purified. This process requires additional steps to remove any remaining impurities from the molybdenum. This step typically involves treating the molybdenum with a chromate solution, which changes its form so that it can be easily filtered out.
After the rhenium and molybdenum have been separated and purified, they can be further processed. For example, if the rhenium needs to be alloyed, it can be treated with a flux, which helps to make the alloy more malleable and easier to handle.
Separating rhenium from molybdenum is a complicated process, but it is essential to the production of many industrial products. Without access to both elements, many modern industrial processes would not be possible, or would be extremely difficult and costly. As such, it is important to understand the steps involved in this process, as well as why it is so difficult.
