Solvent Extraction of Uranium (VI) from Chloride Solutions using Cyphos IL-101

The solvent extraction of uranium (VI) from chloride solutions by Cyphos IL-101 in xylene has been studied. Distribution coefficients were found to increase with aqueous chloride concentration and extractant concentration. The enthalpy of extraction is endothermic with ΔH = +24 ± 2 kJ·mol−1. Based upon slope analysis, an anion exchange extraction mechanism is proposed, with formation of a UO2Cl4 2- complex in association with 4 Cyphos IL-101 ligands. The extraction kinetics were fast, with complete equilibration occurring within 30 seconds. An isotherm for uranium extraction from 1.0 mol·L−1 chloride solution by 0.1 mol·L−1 Cyphos IL-101 in xylene shows that 45 mmol·L−1 uranium can be loaded into the organic phase in equilibrium with 2.1 mmol·L−1 in the aqueous phase. The absorption spectrum of the uranium loaded solvent between 350 and 550 nm is indicative of the UO2Cl4 2- complex with only chlorides present in the inner coordination sphere, unlike the more strongly hydrogen bonded Alamine 336 extracted uranium complex. Subject to the same experimental conditions, distribution coefficients for Cyphos IL-101 were significantly greater than for Alamine 336 or Aliquat 336.