Abstract:
The extraction of copper from aqueous solution using the extractant LIX64N in kerosene diluent has been studied. The experimental work consists of determination of maximum loading capacity, equilibrium condition, 3 ideal stage countercurrent extraction and the extraction of copper in an RDC column. The experimental results show that the value of maximum loading capacity is about 0.39 g/l based on 1 % by volume of the extractant. The equilibrium curves have been altered by initial concentration as well as pH o aqueous copper solution. The result obtained from 3 ideal stage countercurrent extraction by varying concentration (9.5 and 15 % by volume), pH (0.6 to 1.9) and organic to aqueous phase ratio (0/A : 1/1 and 2/1) shows that the extraction efficiency can reach the value as high as 99 %. In the extraction of copper in an RDC operating at 770 rpm using the extractant concentration of 15 % by volume, the maximum extraction efficiency was found to be about 81 % at the values of 0/A and pH equal to 2/l and 2.40, respectively.