Chapter 5 - Examples of Application of Solvent Extraction Techniques in Chemical, Radiochemical, Biochemical, Pharmaceutical, Analytical Separations, and Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

This chapter discusses examples of application of the process in laboratory, scale up studies, and commercial applications for specific separations in different fields of practice. In addition, the initial bench-scale experimental work in solvent extraction processes is conducted for determination of main process parameters (the temperature, flow rate, acidity, etc.) using small apparatus such as separator funnels. Subsequently at the successful completion of these tests, when the best reagent and other conditions for the system have been established, small-scale continuous operations are run, such as in a small mixer-settler unit. The data so obtained are used to determine scale up factors for pilot plant or plant design and operation. Furthermore, the chapter also discusses pilot plant operations that are considered from a technological and economic point of view. If few modifications are required, considerable savings can result on scale up. On the other hand, problems encountered in a plant operation that has been designed without piloting the process could result in the loss of considerable time and expense. It should be pointed out that the size of a pilot plant could vary from a few gallons per minute of total throughput to several hundred gallons per minute. Normally, one would expect that the size of a pilot plant would be directly proportional to the size of the final plant. Along with this, extraction in hydrometallurgy, types of metal extractants, and metal ion extractant complexes formation are discussed.