Metals Analysis with Thenoyltrifluoroacetone
SourceThe role of 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone (TTA) in metals analysis is reviewed. The principle of the liquid-liquid extraction technique involving TTA is discussed. A survey of extraction systems using TTA in metals separations is presented. Radiochemical procedures based on this versatile chelating agent have been used successfully on the Atomic Energy Project for several years. Details for the specific determination of radiozirconium, radiocerium, plutonium, and neptunium are described and illustrate the application of the techniques of solvent choice, acidity, variation of metal oxidation state, the use of masking agents, and washing and stripping of the organic phase to effect high selectivity in TTA liquid-liquid extraction procedures. Recent investigations on the extraction of iron and columbium from strong acid solution are discussed.