Task-specific ionic liquids incorporating alkyl phosphate cations for extraction of U(VI) from nitric acid medium. Synthesis, characterization, and extraction performance

Imidazole-based task-specific ionic liquids designed to extract U(VI) from nitric acid medium were synthesized through the introduction of tributyl phosphate functional group in cationic of these ionic liquids. Their structures were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum and element analysis. These task-specific ionic liquids can be used simultaneously as solvents and extractants for extracting U(VI) in nitric acid medium. Preliminary extraction data showed that they could be efficiently used to extract U(VI) in nitric acid medium at room temperature. (author)