Interactions Between the Components of ABC Extractants and Extraction of Monocarboxylic Acids by These Extractants

Abstract

Abstract In acid‐base couple (ABC) extractants, the interactions between the lipophilic amines and the lipophilic acids in the organic phase result in the formation of new complexes, some of which involve proton transfer, as indicated by IR spectroscopy. The nature of those interactions is determined by the relative acid‐base properties of the interacting components, their molecular structure, and the properties of the diluent. Extraction of mono‐carboxylic acids (di‐chloro acetic, lactic, and propionic) by various ABC extractants was studied. Ion‐pair formation, H‐bonding, and solvation were found to be the main extraction mechanisms.