Separating lanthanides and actinides from nitric acid solutions by using N,N-di(2-ethylhexyl)-diglycolamic acid (HDEHDGA)

Abstract

The extraction of Eu(III), U(VI), and Pu(IV) from 0.1–3 M HNO₃ solutions by using N,N-di(2-ethyl-hexyl)-diglycolamic acid (HDEHDGA) is presented. In contrast to common organic acid extractants, such as long-chain carboxylic acids, organophosphorus acids, and derivatives of beta-diketones, losing extractability, HDEHDGA exhibits a strong ability to extract lanthanide and actinide ions from high HNO₃ solutions.