Separation of Copper (II) with Solvent Extraction Using Lauric acid Diluted in Benzene

Abstract

Solvent extraction of Copper (II) {Cu(II)} from aqueous solutions by organic solvent composing of lauric acid (extractant)/benzene (diluent) has been studied at T=298.2 K under atmospheric pressure. Effect of initial Cu(II) concentration in aqueous phase ( 5 X 10-4, 2.5 X 10-3, 5 X 10-3 and 2.5 X 10-2) M in pH=1.6 Sulphuric acid solution were investigated. Extraction was studied as a function of organic phase composition, acid concentration, aqueous pH, primary copper concentration. The copper concentrations were analysed by Spectroscopy. Percentage extraction (%E) of Cu(II) was studied. Distribution coefficient (D’) were measured to determine the extracting capability of the extractant. The distribution coefficient (D’) and extraction percentage (%E) increased with growth of pH. The results indicate pH, percentage extraction (%E), and distribution constant (D’) decrease with increasing initial Cu(II) concentration (5 X 10-4 to 2.5 X 10-2) M and they decrease with increase of lauric acid concentration (0.2 to 0.5) M.