Kinetics of Extraction of Boric Acid by 2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol Using Lewis Cell

Abstract

The extraction kinetics of forward extraction of boron by 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol (TMPD) were investigated, using a Lewis cell. Factors affecting the extraction rate, including stirring speed, concentrations (TMPD and B(OH)₃), interfacial area, and temperature were examined. Results indicated that the extraction rate is controlled by chemical reaction at interface. The activation energy E_a was measured depending on experimental conditions. The extraction rates of B(OH)₃ and TMPD are first-order dependent with respect to B(OH)₃ and TMPD concentrations, and rate equation is proposed. The rate-determining step is to form the complex at the interface, and the derived extraction mechanism is in good agreement with the experimental results. Based on the above-mentioned regime, an extraction mechanism for boron was also presented.