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Problem associated with the use of TBP for LEM extraction of U(VI) and attempt to overcome this problem using other ligands

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Abstract

Suitability of TBP for recovery of uranium(VI) from dilute HNO3 using LEM extraction is investigated. TBP co-extracts significant amount of HNO3 along with U(VI). Beyond a critical time, extraction of U(VI) ceases due to attainment of critical acid level when the strip phase is unable to break TBP–U(VI) complex. The observed critical time is in good agreement with that estimated from rate of acid extraction. Optimal conditions at which the relative extraction of HNO3 is minimal with respect to U(VI) is arrived at. The extraction efficiency of TBP is compared with other ligands viz., TiAP, TEHP, TOPO, TOA and D2EHPA.

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Acknowledgments

The author wishes to thank Quality Control Division of Uranium Extraction Division (QCS-UED), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, India for allowing us to carry out the experimental work.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai, India

    Diptendu Das & V. A. Juvekar

  2. Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, Mumbai, India

    R. Bhattacharya

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  1. Diptendu Das
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  2. V. A. Juvekar
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  3. R. Bhattacharya
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Correspondence to Diptendu Das.

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Das, D., Juvekar, V.A. & Bhattacharya, R. Problem associated with the use of TBP for LEM extraction of U(VI) and attempt to overcome this problem using other ligands. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 304, 1027–1042 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-014-3918-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-014-3918-z

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