Iron(III) removal from base-metal electrolyte solutions by solvent extraction

Abstract

The use of a novel synergistic solvent extraction mixture based on an alkylated derivative of 8-hydroxyquinoline (Kelex 100) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) for the selective removal of iron(III) from strong sulphuric acid solutions is described. Stripping of the iron from the loaded organic solvent is effected by reacting with hydrogen to reduce iron(III) to iron(II), which subsequently is easily stripped with a weak acid solution. The applicability of the process for iron removal from an actual copper electrolyte is also demonstrated. © 1984.