Transport of metal ions across a supported liquid membrane (SLM) using dimethyldibutyl-tetradecyl-1,3-malonamide (DMDBTDMA) as the carrier

The effect of diluents like n-dodecane, n-hexane, cyclohexane, toluene, 1,2 -dichloroethane, diethylbenzene, decalin and nitrobenzene on the extraction of Am(III) and its transport from nitric acid medium across a supported liquid membrane (SLM) using DMDBTDMA as the extractant/carrier has been investigated. The variation in distribution ratio of Am(III) with diluents displayed a good empirical correlation with some of the physico-chemical parameters of the diluents. The experimental data for Am(III) transport were quantitatively described by rate transport equations. Amongst various stripping agents investigated for the Am(III) transport, a mixture of 0.4 M formic acid, 0.4 M hydrazine hydrate and 0.1 M DTPA was found to be the most promising. Transport of various metal ions studied followed the order: U(VI) > Pu(IV) > Am(III) > Eu(III) > Sr(II). Cs(I) showed no transport during the entire period of the experiment.