Lanthanide Metal Ions Detection

In this chapter, we present a detailed account on detection of lanthanide ions constituting elements from lanthanum ( Z = 57) to lutetium ( Z = 71), present in the form of metal complexes, functional materials, and various mineral assemblages. These elements together with scandium ( Z = 21) and yttrium ( Z = 39) constitute the rare-earth elements. The detection techniques using chemical sensors, luminescent sensors, electrochemical sensors, and ratiometric detectors are discussed based on the coordination properties, stereochemical requirements, and fluorescent and electrochemical properties of lanthanide ions. The preferred choice of technique, the detection mechanism, and parameters ensuring efficient and sensitive detection are comprehensively described to aid researchers working in this field. The chapter also discusses the applications of lanthanide-based functional materials used as critical components and their detection in medical diagnostics, electronics, clean energy, automotive, aerospace, and environmental applications.