Study of Lithium-Extraction Systems Based on Benzo-15-Crown-5 Ether and Alkylimidazolium-Based Ionic Liquid

The extraction of lithium from aqueous solutions of LiNTf2 and LiCl salts using benzo-15-crown-5 ether (B15C5) as an extractant in [C8mim][NTf2] ionic liquid was studied. The transition of the extractant into the aqueous phase and the distribution of Cl− ions during lithium extraction from LiCl solutions were determined. LiNTf2 complexes with B15C5 with different LiNTf2:B15C5 ratios were isolated for the first time and characterized via X-ray diffraction and IR spectroscopy. Differences in the extraction process of LiCl and LiNTf2 were determined via an infrared spectroscopic study of the extraction systems.