Scandium extraction from hydrochloric acid media by Levextrel-type resins containing di-isooctyl methyl phosphonate

Scandium extraction by Levextrel-type material (TVEX) containing di-isooctyl methyl phosphonate (DIOMP) was studied in 2-8 M HCl and in comparison with solvent extraction by liquid DIOMP and TVEX resins based on other organo-phosphorus extractants. Significant extraction was only achieved from solutions with >4 M HCL Based on P-31 and Sc-45 NMR data it was determined that scandium is extracted as chlor-aqua complexes [ScCln(DIOMP)(m)(H2O)(6-n-m)]((3-n)+) where n = 1-2, m=2-4 depending on the scandium concentration and acidity of the aqueous phase. (c) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.