Extraction of toluene from aliphatic compounds using an ionic liquid as solvent: Influence of the alkane on the (liquid + liquid) equilibrium

In this paper, the feasibility of using 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium ethylsulfate ionic liquid, [EMim][ESO4], as solvent for the extraction of toluene from aliphatic compounds (hexane, heptane, octane, or nonane) was analyzed. (Liquid + liquid) equilibrium (LLE) data for the ternary systems {alkane (1) + toluene (2) + [EMim][ESO4] (3)} were measured at T = 298.15 K and atmospheric pressure. Selectivity and solute distribution ratio were calculated from the experimental LLE data, and the obtained values were compared to those previously reported using other ionic liquids and sulfolane. The degree of consistency of the experimental LLE data was ascertained using the Othmer–Tobias equation. Finally, the experimental LLE data were satisfactorily correlated with NRTL and UNIQUAC models.

Research highlights
► An ionic liquid was analyzed as solvent for extraction of toluene from alkanes.
► Liquid–liquid equilibrium data were measured at 298.15 K and atmospheric pressure.
► Selectivity and solute distribution ratio were obtained and compared with literature.
► The Othmer-Tobias equation was used to ascertain the experimental LLE data.
► Experimental data were correlated using NRTL and UNIQUAC models.