Abstract
This study investigates the extraction behavior of Y(3+) ions using a Multi-Dropped Liquid Membrane (MDLM) system that employs di(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D(2)EHPA) as the carrier ligand. The focus is on the system's ability to transport ions between aqueous phases selectively. The extracted complex was analyzed spectrophotometrically via ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) measurements after complexation with 0.05% Arsenazo III. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the optimum D(2)EHPA carrier concentration, together with the pH and temperature conditions of the donor and acceptor phases, on the system's extraction performance. Accordingly, a series of extraction experiments was performed at different D(2)EHPA concentrations, pH values, and temperatures to assess their combined effects on transport kinetics. The MDLM system achieved a maximum transport efficiency of 99.90% for Y(3+) ions at a D(2)EHPA concentration of 0.0045 mol/L, with a corresponding extraction time of 160 min. The shortest transport time of 120 min was observed at a carrier concentration of 0.0075 mol/L, confirming the strong influence of carrier concentration on extraction kinetics. The calculated low activation energy of 31.446 kJ/mol suggests that the transport of Y(3+) ions through the MDLM system into the organic phase containing D(2)EHPA is diffusion-controlled.