The solvent extraction of radium using sym-Di[4(5)-tert-butylbenzo]-16-crown-5-oxyacetic acid

The extraction of radium using sym-Di[4(5)-tert-butylbenzo]-16-crown-5-oxyacetic acid (DTBDB16C5-OAcH) in toluene is excellent. The reaction is reversible without counterions at pH higher than 9. The distribution ratio decreases as the dissolved concentration of alkaline earth ions increases. Probed factors involved in this solvent extraction system include pH values, solvents, metal ions, and the concentration of DTBDB16C5-OAcH. Liquid scintillation cocktails including Ultima Gold and Hionic Fluor were also evaluated in liquid scintillation counting.