Solvent Extraction of Lithium with Thenoyltrifluoroacetone

Abstract

Solvent extraction of lithium with thenoyltrifluoroacetone (TTA) was carried out by using 23 organic solvents. The organic solvents having electron donor oxygen(alcohols, esters, ketones, and ethers) were used. The mechanism of this extraction was the formation of an adduct between an oxygen containing organic solvent and a lithium chelate of TTA. This adduct is readily soluble. Adducts Li(TTA)₂.2S (S : solvent) were extracted with organic solvents other than alcohols. This extraction was explained in terms of a dispersion force between solvent and solute and a coodrinating effect of oxygen containing solvents.