Abstract: To identify the interfacial emulsification mechanism in copper solvent extraction process, the adsorption behavior of bauxite and kaolin solid particles on extractant was studied by establishing the standard curve of relationship between the volume fraction of extractant and the infrared absorption of extractant; and by means of a surface tensiometer, the effect of bauxite and kaolin solid particles on the interface between water phase and extractant organic phase. The results indicate that the adsorption of the solid particles such as bauxite ones on organic solvents can reduce the tension of interface between water phase and extractant organic phase, thus promoting the formation and stability of interfacial emulsions.

Key words: Copper solvent, Solid particle, Adsorption, Interface tension, Emulsification