Extraction of acetic acid from aqueous solutions by emulsion type liquid membranes using Alamine 300 as a carrier

Abstract

The extraction of acetic acid from aqueous solutions by an emulsion type liquid membrane process was investigated, using Alamine 300 as carrier, Span 80 as surfactant, and Na2CO3 solution as stripping agent. A number of significant parameters viz. mixing speed, surfactant concentration, diluent type, concentration of the carrier Alamine 300, concentration of stripping agent, pH and concentration of feed solution were investigated. Acetic acid was successfully extracted and concentrated from aqueous solutions. Approximately 86% extraction of acetic acid was achieved within 10 min in a stirred vessel.