Metal Ion Separations in Aqueous Biphasic Systems and with ABEC Resins

Solvent extraction is a proven technology for the recovery of metal ions from aqueous solution (1 ,2 ). Through the application of different diluents, extractants, and aqueous phase conditions, the technique may be adapted to handle a wide variety of solutes. Extraction kinetics are often rapid, enabling high throughput, and the technology may be engineered for selectivity and efficiency through the use of multistage contactors. However, there are disadvantages to the employment of aqueous/organic extraction schemes. In paticular, many utilize toxic and flammable organic diluents, which may add significant cost to the overall process design and which are highly regulated owing to their environmental impact.