OBJECTIVES

Previous work on improving efficiency and selectivity in solvent extraction has focused on reagent analysis and identifying degradation products and their impact on efficiency, and on developing and testing synergistic solvent extraction (SSX) systems. SSX uses a combination of extractant and synergist which work together to improve metal selectivity.

Research to date has indicated that different metals react differently with extractants and synergists in a SSX system, and that control of the ratio of the synergist to extractant may be necessary in an operation to maintain optimum element separations. Current analytical methods are inadequate for this purpose.

Therefore this project aims to:

• realise the potential of SSX through fundamental understanding of what complexes are formed between extractants/synergists and different metals and under what conditions
  
• develop methods to measure the concentrations of multiple reagents (extractants/synergists) in SSX solutions so SX circuits can be optimised and monitored for best operation
  
• assess the chemical stability of prospective SSX systems under potential operating conditions
  
• understand reagent degradation mechanisms and therefore modify operating conditions where possible to minimise such degradation
  
• demonstrate the developed capabilities to industry and use to solve industry problems.

INDUSTRY BENEFITS

• new analytical methods to understand the chemistry of novel SSX systems developed by the Centre, to demonstrate that a SSX system is chemically robust and to monitor extractant performance in a processing plant.

RESEARCH TEAM
Dr Keith Barnard (Project Leader)
Ms Nicole Turner
(CSIRO Minerals)

PROJECT DURATION
2005-2008