The Rare Earth Elements Fundamentals and Applications

This volume provides a comprehensive treatment of the chemistry, physics, geology, and applications of the rare earth elements. It begins with the geological occurrence, geochemistry, and natural abundances of rare earths, and addresses the sustainability and resource issues associated with their growing use. Fundamental aspects such as electronic structure, oxidation states, group trends, coordination and organometallic chemistry, and solution behavior are covered in depth. The book then surveys a broad range of compound classes (halides, oxides, alkoxides, siloxides, chalcogenolates, carboxylates, multidentate complexes, borides, carbides, nitrides, and cluster complexes). Advanced topics include luminescence, magnetism, superconductivity, molecular magnetic materials, and near‑infrared and nanomaterials. Finally, the text highlights key technological and biological applications, including catalysis, organic synthesis, metal–organic frameworks, upconversion and luminescent bioprobes, MRI contrast agents, shift reagents, sensors, supramolecular assemblies, heterogeneous catalysis, and endohedral fullerenes.