Second harmonic generation monitoring of nitric acid extraction by a monoamide at the water–dodecane interface

Abstract

The interface dynamic properties of a monoamide extractant with potential for application to the front end of the nuclear cycle and to waste treatment are examined by second harmonic generation. The results are compared with bulk nitric ion titration and surface pressure measurements. SH static studies show the extractant reaching the interface and accurately match the IFT measurements. The main feature of the SH dynamic studies is a chaotic fluctuation period, strongly related to intense extraction. Fluctuations are a signature of the interface behaviour during the extraction process. Vertical development of the interface, often called protrusion, remains the most probable origin of the measured fluctuation. Additionally, interfacial measurements show a non-monotonic lag time during extraction, probably related to cooperative effects not observed in the bulk at the working concentration. Such mutual behaviour could be a supplementary prerequisite for the ion transfer across this liquid–liquid interface.