Rubidium and Rubidium Compounds

Abstract Rubidium is an alkali metal in Group 1(!A) of the Periodic Table. Its chemical and physical properties generally lie between those of potassium and cerium. There are no minerals in which rubidium is the predominant metallic element. Lepidolite and pollucite are the rubidium‐bearing minerals. The traditional processes used to recover rubidium from these minerals ores involve the extraction of mixed alkali alums from the ore via leaching. Rubidium compounds can also be separated from other alkali metal compounds by solvent extraction and ion exchange. Rubidium is generally listed as having a low degree of toxicity. Health risks are associated with rubidium compounds. The principal use for rubidium is in research. Rubidium isotopes are used in medical procedures and pharmaceuticals. It is also used in atomic clocks, ceramic applications, and in global positioning systems (GPS).