Presentation Notes
Topic: Solvent Extraction of Metals
By: Zawish Riaz Warraich
1. Introduction
My topic is Solvent Extraction of Metals — an important technique in
analytical and industrial chemistry
It is also known as liquid–liquid extraction
It helps to separate and purify metals from their aqueous solutions using an
organic solvent.
2. Definition
Solvent extraction is a process in which a solute (metal ion) is transferred
from one liquid phase to another immiscible liquid phase.
Usually:
Aqueous phase → water-based metal solution
Organic phase → solvent like kerosene, ether, chloroform etc.
The metal moves to the organic layer because it forms a soluble complex
there.
3. Principle
The principle is based on the distribution of solute between two immiscible
solvents.
The ratio of concentration of the solute in both phases is called the
distribution coefficient (Kd)
A metal ion forms a complex with an organic reagent, which becomes more
soluble in the organic layer, allowing extraction
4. Process of Solvent Extraction
Preparation of metal solution
Make an aqueous solution containing metal ions (e.g., Cu²⁺ from
CuSO₄)
Addition of organic solvent
Add an immiscible solvent (kerosene, ether, chloroform) containing an
extracting agent.
Shaking
Shake in a separating funnel → metal reacts with reagent → forms
metal complex soluble in organic layer.
Separation of layers
Allow layers to stand; organic layer now has the metal complex,
aqueous layer has remaining solution.
Back extraction (stripping)
Metal is recovered from the organic layer by treating it with acid or
another reagent.
Recovery of pure metal
The stripped solution gives pure metal by precipitation or electrolysis.
5. Factors Affecting Extraction
pH of solution: affects complex formation.
Nature of solvent: must be immiscible with water.
Type of reagent or ligand: determines selectivity.
Temperature: affects solubility and rate.
Mixing time and solvent ratio: proper shaking improves extraction
efficiency.
6. Examples
(a) Extraction of Copper (Cu²⁺)
Aqueous phase: Copper sulfate (CuSO₄) solution
Organic phase: Kerosene with oxime reagent
Copper complex moves into organic layer.
Recovered by acid stripping or electrolysis.
Used in industries to recover copper from low-grade ores.
(b) Extraction of Uranium (U)
Aqueous phase: Uranyl nitrate [UO₂(NO₃)₂]
Organic solvent: Tributyl phosphate (TBP) in kerosene
Uranium–TBP complex moves to organic layer.
Stripped back with water or dilute acid.
Used in nuclear industry for purification of uranium.
(c) Extraction of Zinc (Zn²⁺)
Aqueous phase: Zinc sulfate (ZnSO₄)
Zinc complex moves to organic layer.
Metal recovered by back extraction with acid.
Used for purification of zinc from waste solutions.
7. Applications
Extraction and purification of metals like Cu, Zn, Ni, Co, U.
Separation of radioactive elements.
Used in analytical laboratories before spectroscopic or chemical analysis.
Recovery of valuable metals from industrial effluents.
8. Advantages
Simple and fast technique.
Highly selective for specific metals.
Can handle dilute solutions.
Produces pure and concentrated metal products.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, solvent extraction is a powerful and efficient technique for
separation and purification of metals.
It works on the principle of distribution between two immiscible liquids and
is widely used in both analytical chemistry and industry.
Thank you