The process of transferring a substance from any matrix to an appropriate liquid phase. If the substance is initially present as a solute in an immiscible liquid phase the process is synonymous with
liquid-liquid extraction.
Notes:
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If the extractable material is present in a solid (such as a crushed mineral or an ore) the term leaching may be more appropriate. The extractable material may also be a liquid entrapped within or adsorbed on a solid phase.
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Common usage has established this term as a synonym for liquid-liquid distribution. This is acceptable provided that no danger of confusion with extraction from solid phases exists in a given context.
Source:
PAC, 1993, 65, 2373
(Nomenclature for liquid-liquid distribution (solvent extraction) (IUPAC Recommendations 1993))
on page 2379