Interfacial chemistry in solvent extraction systems: Progress report for period April 1, 1986-March 31, 1987

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic, vapor pressure osmometric and Karl Fischer titrimetric measurements have provided support for our earlier findings obtained from interfacial tension and mass transfer experiments that reversed micelles are formed, under certain conditions, in the system HDEHP/n-hexane/CaCl2 solution. These studies were further extended to include different organophosphorus acid (PC 88A), diluent (benzene), and metal ions (Co2+, Ni2+, and Zn2+) to determine whether reversed micellization is a general phenomenon occurring in solvent extraction systems which employ organophosphorus acids. The data obtained so far, suggest that reversed micellization indeed is a general phenomenon operative in organophosphorus acid extractant systems. A new mass transfer cell has been constructed in order to investigate the metal distribution equilibria and extraction kinetics of Co, Ni and Zn using atomic absorption spectrophotometric technique. A quasi-elastic light-scattering apparatus has been installed to investigate aggregation phenomena in solvent extraction systems. Preliminary drop-interface coalescence studies were performed, and the results were correlated with those obtained from interfacial tension measurements. The laser heterodyne light-scattering apparatus for measurement of interfacial viscoelastic properties also has been set-up and is being optimized for high resolution measurements. 21 refs., 16 figs