Extraction and separation of iridium(IV) and rhodium(III) from hydrochloric acid media by a quaternary ammonium-based hydrophobic eutectic solvent

The extraction and separation of iridium(IV) rhodium(III) from hydrochloric acid solutions by a hydrophobic eutectic solvent composed tetraheptylammonium chloride decanoic have been studied for the first time. This selectively extracts over rhodium(III), highest factor obtained is approximately 20. effects main experimental factors (shaking time, volume ratio aqueous to organic phase, concentration, initial metal concentration in phase) on behavior investigated. Ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy was applied reveal [IrCl6]2? complex be predominant species attributed extraction. To understand underlying mechanism, phase has varied corresponding mathematical model developed.