Journal of Chemical Engineering & Process Technology
Open Access

Abstract

Ionic Liquid-Based Process Development for Cobalt Recovery from Aqueous Streams

Enas A. Othman*, Aloijsius G.J. Van der Ham, Henk Miedema and Sascha R.A. Kersten

Using the ionic liquid [P₈₈₈₈ ⁺][Oleate-], liquid-liquid extraction has been studied to recover Co²⁺ from water. Extractionregeneration experiments were followed during five consecutive cycles with Na₂CO₃(aq) as regeneration solution. Over 99% of Co²⁺ was extracted and using 0.7-1 M Na₂CO₃(aq) the extracted Co²⁺ was recovered for 99% in the form of CoCO₃(s). Co²⁺ transfer shifted from ion-pair extraction in the first cycle to ion-exchange in the successive cycles. Thus, the measurement of a single extraction–regeneration cycle is not sufficient to perceive conclusive information about the steady-state conditions of the process. In the context of the feasibility of the technology, four key aspects are addressed: extraction efficiency, recovery of the IL, loss of the IL, and the end product.

Synopsis

Cobalt extraction from aqueous using ionic liquid [P₈₈₈₈ ⁺][oleate^-] and cobalt recovery applying Na₂CO₃ solution as an efficient and sustainable regeneration strategy since it provides interesting end product for market with high regeneration efficiency.

Published Date: 2019-08-19; Received Date: 2019-06-25