Third phase formation studies in the extraction of Th(IV) and U(VI) by N,N-dialkyl aliphatic amides

N,N-dialkyl aliphatic amides with varying alkyl groups have been compared with organophosphorous extractants, tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) for third phase formation behavior during the extraction of Th(IV) and U(VI) from nitric acid medium. Dihexyl decanamide (DHDA) appears to be better in comparison to TBP with respect to third phase formation during thorium extraction. The effects of aqueous phase acidity and the nature of diluents on the third phase formation are studied. The limiting organic phase concentration (LOC) values for U(VI) and Th(IV) with branched chain, di(2-ethylhexyl) isobutyramide (D2EHIBA) increased with ligand concentration, while the critical aqueous concentration (CAC) values of metal ions decreased.