Liquid-liquid extraction of zinc(II) as its ethyl xanthate

A method for quantitative extraction of zinc with potassium ethyl xanthate into carbon tetrachloride is described. The optimum conditions are: pH 5-6 and Zn(II) to reagent ~1:8 mole ratio. The effects of other ions on the extraction of Zn(2+) have been investigated, and its separation from As(3+), Pb(2+), Cu(2+) and Fe(3+)is described. The possibility of repeated use of the solvent (still loaded with xanthate after the zinc has been stripped) for further extractions (after addition of a little extra xanthate) has been explored. Various stripping agents have been examined, and the optimum conditions found.