Mass transfer analysis of the extraction of Nickel(II) by emulsion liquid membrane

Abstract

A mathematical model for batch extraction of Nickei(II) with emulsion liquid membrane (ELM) from a dilute sulphate solution and from industrial wastewater, using di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) as extractant and hydrochloric acid as stripping agent is reported. The model considers a reaction front within the emulsion globule and assumes an instantaneous and irreversible reaction between the solute and the internal reagent at the

membrane internal droplet interface. Batch experiments are performed for separation of Nickel(II) from aqueous sulphate solution of initial concentration in the range of 100-75 mg/L. The influence of Nickei(II) concentration on the distribution coefficient at pH 3.5 is co-related by a semiempirical model, which has been used for simulation of the extraction process. The simulated curves are found to be in good agreement with the experimental data.