Separation of molybdenum(VI) and tungsten(VI) from sulfate solutions by solvent extraction with LIX 63 and PC 88A

• LIX 63 and PC 88A were employed to separate Mo(VI) and W(VI) from sulfuric acid solution.
• LIX 63 led to selective extraction of Mo(VI) over W(VI) in the pH range of 2 to 6.
• Equilibrium pH was higher than initial pH by the extraction with LIX 63.
• A separation factor of 406 was obtained by extraction with LIX 63 at pH 4.
• The McCabe–Thiele diagrams for the extraction and stripping of Mo(VI) were constructed.

The separation of Mo(VI) and W(VI) from sulfate solution by LIX 63 and PC 88A was investigated as a function of solution pH. Using LIX 63, selective extraction of Mo(VI) over W(VI) in the initial pH range from 2.0 to 6.0 was achieved and a separation factor of 406 was obtained. However, it was impossible to separate Mo(VI) and W(VI) by extraction with PC 88A in the same pH range. The equilibrium pH was higher than the initial pH, suggesting a possible solvating mechanism. The loaded Mo(VI) was quantitatively stripped from the loaded LIX 63 and it was possible to obtain a Mo(VI) solution with purity of 99%. The McCabe–Thiele diagrams for the extraction and stripping of Mo(VI) by using LIX 63 were constructed.

It was possible to separate Mo(VI) and W(VI) from sulfuric acid solution in the equilibrium pH range of 2.2–5.8 by extraction with LIX 63.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide