In this study solvent extraction process has been used for separation of cadmium and copper from
sulphate solution. A phosphoric acid extractant (D2EHPA) and an oxime extractant (MEX) in kerosene
diluent were used as cadmium and copper extractants, respectively. The results showed that 1 g/L
cadmium could be extracted by 30–35% (v/v) D2EHPA at the pH of 3.5–4. Cadmium separation factor
over copper with D2EHPA was calculated 4.04 in best condition of pH (=2). On the other hand 3% MEX
separated 1 g/L copper over cadmium optimally at the pH of 3.5 and under this condition of pH, copper
separation factor is calculated 4495.5. Loading capacity studies showed that copper existence in
cadmium aqueous solution reduces cadmium extraction with D2EHPA up to 10% whilst copper
extraction percentage with MEX does not vary considerably in the presence of cadmium.