About this Abstract |
Meeting |
2025 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
Symposium
|
Computational Thermodynamics and Kinetics
|
Presentation Title |
Advancing Mineral Extraction: Predictive Modeling of Colloidal Cluster Dynamics via Diglycolamide Complexants |
Author(s) |
Kaustubh Bawankule, John A. Howarter |
On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Kaustubh Bawankule |
Abstract Scope |
The sustainability of the material industry relies on advanced separation and recycling methodologies for various metal species, particularly rare earth elements (REEs). Solvent extraction, a key hydrometallurgical technique, necessitates optimization to enhance selectivity and efficiency. Despite the prevalence of organophosphorus acids as extractants, their limitations in selectivity and sensitivity demand alternatives. N,N’-dimethyl N,N’-(n-dioctyl) diglycolamide (DMDODGA) emerges as a promising candidate, offering enhanced extraction efficacy but presents challenges such as phase disengagement and clustering. These supramolecular assemblies hinder mass transfer, affecting extraction performance. This study aims to elucidate the clustering phenomena of DMDODGA in nitric acid and n-dodecane, employing molecular dynamics simulations for comprehensive characterization. The development of a statistical thermodynamics model will predict cluster stability, addressing over-stabilization issues and advancing solvent extraction techniques for REE recovery. Our findings aim to bridge molecular-level insights and chemical engineering, facilitating process intensification in separation science. |
Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
Keywords |
Computational Materials Science & Engineering, Modeling and Simulation, Sustainability |