EXTRACTION OF PHENOL USING SULFURIC ACIDS SALTS OF TRIOCTYLAMINE IN A SUPPORTED LIQUID MEMBRANE

The extraction of phenol by trioctylamine sulfate salts in a supported-liquid membrane (SLM) process was investigated. In the extraction process, a transport model, which included the film diffusion of phenol in the aqueous phase, the membrane diffusion within the SLM, and the interfacial chemical reaction, was built. The experimental parameters, such as the cell constant (beta), the diffusivity of (TOA)2H2SO4.PhOH in the SLM (D(c,b)), and the mass-transfer coefficient of phenol in the aqueous solution (K(L)), were determined from experiments. On the basis of the experimental data and the results obtained from the transport model, the rate-controlling step of the extraction of phenol by an SLM during permeation is discussed. The effects of the operating variables and parameters, such as the initial concentration of phenol in the aqueous phase, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, and trioctylamine sulfate salts, on the extraction of phenol were examined.