Sustainability of solvent extraction techniques in pollution prevention and control

What is it about?

Solvent extraction is one of the most commonly applied conventional separation techniques; it is used in different industries including food, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, ore processing, and waste management to extract beneficial components. The sustainability of this technique is challenged by the environmental impacts of conventional solvents. Advances in solvent extraction research have addressed this point by using greener solvents or synergetic solvent extraction and sorption or membrane technologies to reduce the volume of spent solvents.

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Why is it important?

This chapter reviews recent research efforts to ensure the sustainability of solvent extraction by using solvent extraction optimization and green solvent classes. The application of conventional solvent extraction in waste management will be highlighted and the application of advanced solvent extraction to improve the radioactive waste management practice will be reviewed. Finally, available technologies for the management of spent solvents generated within the nuclear industry will be discussed.