Determination of impurities by ICP-MS after separating them from the Zr(IV) matrix by solvent extraction with TBP/Toluene

Abstract

The capability of Zr(IV) extraction by tributyl phosphate were examined by infrared spectrum and ultraviolet spectrum of Zr(IV), TBP-toluene, and ZrTBP-toluene. Investigation on the effects of the acid concentration on solvent extraction of zirconium and other impurities from HNO₃ acid with TBP diluted in toluene as the extractant was carried out. With the (20.5 mg/ml Zr(IV) and impurities) system, using 50%TBP/toluene with 1 extraction cycle using 8M HNO₃ environment, and 2-3 back-extraction cycles using 10M HNO₃, (95-100%) of most investigated elements can be separated, and Zr(IV) remained in aqueous phase was just about 3-4%. It was found that with the mentioned amount of Zr(IV), the effect of Zr(IV) on the determination of almost elements by ICP-MS can be negligible. This extraction system can be used for separation proceduce of the matrix and determination of impurities in materials of nuclear grade and high purity zirconium by using ICP-MS.