Solvent extraction of copper in a reciprocating plate column

AbstractEquilibrium data for the distribution of copper between an aqueous solution and a 20% solution of di‐(2 ethyl hexyl) phosphoric acid in kerosene has been obtained by shake‐flask experiments. The capacity of the organic phase for copper is greatly improved when the ammonium salt of D2EHPA is used. The performance of a 5 cm diameter Karr reciprocating plate extraction column for continuous counter‐current extraction of copper by ammoniated D2EHPA has been measured. The results, expressed as heights of a transfer unit, have been compared with data for a non‐metallic system (kerosene/acetic acid/water) in the same column. The lowest H.T.U. values measured were 43 cm for copper transfer and 23 cm for acetic acid transfer, with the difference being attributed mainly to the lower molecular diffusivity in the copper/D2EHPA system.

Solvent extraction of copper in a reciprocating plate column Journal Articles