Efficient liquid-liquid extraction of NaCl governed by simultaneous cation and anion coordination

International audienceIn the frame of solvent extraction processes, rather quick and efficient extraction of NaCl and some other salts from water was realized by simultaneous coordination of both cations and anions in the organic phase. A calixarene type compound 1 was used for cation complexation, while functionalized benzyl alcohol 2 acted as anion binding agent in organic phase. Importance of both extractants for efficient extraction was shown. A possibility of separation of different cations and anions was further demonstrated. X-ray structural study proved that extraction always takes place on molecular level. The NMR and μ-Raman spectroscopy studies displayed the character of ion binding by extractants molecules. By carrying out several cycles and changing temperature, the process is efficient for extraction and separation of different ions, and has found already its pilot industrial application