Solvent extraction of vanadium(V) from sulfate solutions using LIX 63 and PC 88A

• Solvent extraction of V(V) by LIX 63 and PC 88A from sulfate solution was analyzed.
• The initial pH of the sulfate solution was from 1.2 to 6.
• The extraction of V(V) by PC 88A occurred by a cationic exchange mechanism.
• As equilibrium pH increased, the extraction of V(V) by LIX 63 changed from cationic to solvating.

Extraction of V(V) by LIX 63 and PC 88A was investigated from sulfate solutions under initial pH 1.2–6. Equilibrium pH had a profound effect on the extraction of V(V) by the two extractants. The extraction of V(V) by PC 88A occurred by a cationic exchange, while that by LIX 63 changed as the equilibrium pH increased. The cationic exchange reaction of VO2+ by LIX 63 occurred at pH < 2.5, while solvating reaction occurred in the equilibrium pH range of 2.5–5.4. The extraction reactions of V(V) by PC 88A and LIX 63 were identified by applying a slope method.