Improvement of the cloud point extraction of uranyl ions by the addition of ionic liquids

- CnmimNTf2 improves cloud point extraction of UO22+ with neutral extractant.
- The extraction efficiency keeps high at both nearly neutral and acidic condition.
- The addition of C4mimNTf2 increases the separation factor of UO22+ and La3+.
- The interaction of the IL anion with micelle induces the synergistic effect.
- TOPO, NTf2− and NO3− establish a soft template for UO22+ in the micelle.