Optimization Studies of An(III) and Ln(III) Extraction and Back-Extraction from a PUREX Raffinate by BisDGA Compounds

A family of compounds based on bis-diglycolamide (bisDGA) estructure has been recently developed to be applied for the trivalent actinides and lanthanides (An(III) and Ln(III)) co-extraction by means of DIAMEX process [1,2]. It has been shown that these bisDGA compounds are efficient extractants of An(III) and Ln(III) regarding to extraction and loading capacity, as well as it has been proved their stability against hydrolysis and radiolysis [3]. For process development, it is necessary to study their selectivity towards An(III) and Ln(III) in the extraction and back-extraction steps in presence of the other elements, such as fission and activation products (FP and AP), in the high active raffinate (HAR) issued from the PUREX process.