Developing a green lithium extraction process: insights into the TBP - P507 system and its industrial potential

Solvent extraction has emerged as a highly promising method for lithium extraction . In this study, a sustainable extraction system was developed using 2-ethylhexyl phosphate mono 2-ethylhexyl ester (P507) and tri-butyl phosphate (TBP). By precisely controlling the coordination mode of Fe 3+ with TBP and P507 during the stripping process, a green extraction process was achieved. The research comprehensively investigated the effects of various factors, such as the type of diluent, saponification ratio, volume ratio of TBP, molar ratio of Fe/Li, and extraction phase ratio. Through systematic experiments, the optimal parameters were identified, and the coordination mechanism between the organic compounds and metal ions was elucidated. This work not only provides a promising approach for lithium recovery from salt lake brines but also establishes a solid theoretical foundation for the industrial application of the TBP-P507 extraction system, thereby holding great potential for promoting the development of the lithium extraction industry.