On the stabilization of niobium(V) solutions by zirconium(IV) and hafnium(IV)

Niobium cannot be separated from zirconium or hafnium when these elements occur together in solution with common anions such as chloride and sulphate. This is ascribed to the co-polymerization of niobium(V) and the hydrolysed ionic species of zirconium(IV) and hafnium(IV) to form colloidal particles. In hydrochloric acid the particles are positively charged, whereas in sulphate solution the Zr- and Hf-sulphate complexes confer a negative charge. The two cases are considered separately.