Optimization of Indium Recovery and Separation from LCD Waste by Solvent Extraction with Bis(2-ethylhexyl) Phosphate (D2EHPA)

Indium tin oxide (ITO) is currently the choice of electrode material in liquid crystal displays (LCDs). D2EHPA is known to be an extractant that can be used to selectively recover indium from 1M sulfuric acid. In order to optimize the extraction and separation of indium from LCD waste, the effects of pH, temperature, time, and extractant concentration on the distribution ratios of In(III) and the major impurities such as Al(III), Cu(II), Fe(III), and Zn(II) were investigated. Metal concentrations in the aqueous feed were based on the concentrations found in the leach liquor of LCD panel glass at 0.1g/mL S/L ratio. This study showed that extraction of indium could be increased at <293 K and stripping of indium could be increased at >293 K. Furthermore, by increasing D2EHPA concentration from 0.1M to 0.25M, extraction of indium could be increased from 70% to >95%.