Selective separation of silver(I) by novel substituted thiourea

Abstract

The extraction of silver(I) from nitric acid solutions using naphthyl substituted thiourea such as 1-naphthylthiourea (ANTU) has been studied. Different variables: equilibration time, aqueous pH, chloride and extractant concentrations and organic phase diluent that could affect the extraction system were evaluated at 28.0 ± 2.0 °C. It was found that silver is quantitatively extractred by ANTU over the entire studied range of nitric acid concentration. Extraction of silver by ANTU is fast and equilibration was achieved in less than five minutes. Experimental data relating to silver have been analysed to determine the stoichiometry of the extracted species. Effect of foreign ions on the extraction of silver was carried out. Recycling capacity of the extractant was also studied. Thiourea and EDTA solutions were found suitable for > 99% stripping of extracted silver(I). The reagent has been found to have high selectivity for silver against copper, cadmium, nickle, cobalt, halfnium, zircomium and europium.