Solvent Extraction of Scandium and Yttrium Using Carboxylic Acid

Abstract

Separation of scandium (Sc) from yttrium (Y) in aqueous chloride media by solvent extraction using Versatic acid 10 was investigated. Conventional slope analysis method revealed the extraction equilibrium formulation of the metals. Sc is more strongly extracted than Y by Versatic acid 10, and the separation factor of the metals is quite high at 1.93 × 104. Complete stripping of Sc from the loaded organic solution of Versatic acid 10 was achieved by 3M HCl solution. Then Versatic acid 10 was applied to solvent impregnated resin (SIR), separation of Sc was progressed via Langmuir adsorption model.