The separation of lanthanides and actinides using the liquid-liquid extraction technique poses a major challenge due to the chemical similarities of the two groups of metals. Hence, interest exists in devising a technique to improve the separation factor. The use of an imposed external field (electrochemical) to improve the liquid-liquid extraction has been explored in the literature with limited success due to conductivity issues. In this work, the use of reverse micelle solutions containing water/AOT-HDEHP/n-dodecane for improved electrical conductivity is explored. The results of a feasibility study of electrochemical modulation of neodymium (Nd) extraction using the reverse micelles/microemulsions will be presented.<br/> <br/>Electrochemical impedance technique was used to determine the effect of molar content of water, W<sub>o</sub>, on the reverse micelle solution conductivity. The distribution ratio of Nd in an constant interface liquid-liquid extraction cell containing reverse micelles and the mechanism of electrochemical modulated liquid-liquid metal ion extraction will be discussed.

Electrochemically modulated extraction of neodymium

251st National Meeting (2016)

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