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

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.