Solvent Extraction and Separation of Trivalent Lanthanides Using Cyphos IL 104, a Novel Phosphonium Ionic Liquid as Extractant

Abstract

Solvent extraction of trivalent lanthanides from chloride solution using a novel ionic liquid Cyphos IL 104 (trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium bis-2,4,4-(trimethylpentyl) phosphinate or [R4PA]) has been investigated, while comparing the results with that of its precursors trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium chloride [R4PCl or Cyphos IL 101], Cyanex 272 [HA] and their equimolar mixture. The results also indicate very high extractability of Cyphos IL 104 toward trivalent lanthanides. Unlike the conventional acidic extractants, extraction of trivalent lanthanides with Cyphos IL 104 increases the equilibrium pH of the aqueous phase due to the preferential extraction of acid over the lanthanide ions. Extraction mechanism has been established by studying the extraction of neodymium(III) with the ionic liquid as a function of the concentrations of Cyphos IL 104 and chloride ions. Separation studies of trivalent lanthanides from a mixed solution containing 1 × 10−4M each of La, Nd, Gd, and Lu with Cyphos IL 104 or Cyanex 272 indicate that Cyphos IL 104 is a better extractant in terms of extraction coefficient, but Cyanex 272 exhibits better selectivity toward heavier lanthanides. The prospects of stripping and regeneration of ionic liquid (Cyphos IL 104) have also been discussed in the present study.