Separation of rare earths by solvent extraction using DEHPA

Abstract

This paper presents results or the analysis of process variables for separating light REE and heavy REE, in chloride media, by solvent extraction. DEHPA-Isoparaffin was used as the extraction system and the liquor was produced in the laboratory by dissolving REE oxides in HCl to simulate leaching liquor originating from monazitic ores after cerium removal. The following parameters were determined: pH of work, extractant concentration, reaction time, and number of extraction stages. A continuous extraction circuit was operated and its behavior was similar to that shown by batch extraction tests.