Extraction of Tetra-Oxo Anions into a Hydrophobic, Ionic Liquid-Based Solvent without Concomitant Ion Exchange

Abstract

Hydrophobic ionic liquids (IL) have the potential to simplify certain separations by serving as both an extraction solvent and an electrolyte for subsequent electrochemical reductions. While IL-based solvents are known to be efficient media for metal ion extraction, separations employing these solvents are frequently complicated by the loss of constituent IL ions to the aqueous phase, resulting in deteriorating performance. In this study, we have examined the extraction of pertechnetate and related tetra-oxo anions from aqueous solutions into IL-based solvents incorporating tetraalkylphosphonium bis[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]imide and a crown ether. In contrast to various previously studied IL-based cation extraction systems, facile anion extraction without significant transfer of the IL ions to the aqueous phase has been observed. In addition, the solvents exhibit high distribution ratios (100-500 for pertechnetate), significant electrical conductivity (>100 ?S/cm), and a wide (4 V) electrochemical window. The results suggest that these solvents may provide the basis for improved approaches to the extraction and recovery of a variety of anions.