Term: solvent extraction
https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.S05752

Definition:
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:
0) 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.
1) Common usage has established this term as a synonym for liquid-liquid distribution. This is acceptable provided that no danger of confusion with @E02301@ from solid phases exists in a given context.

Related Terms:
1) extraction (http://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.E02301).
2) liquid-liquid extraction (http://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.L03587).

Source: PAC, 1993, 65, 2373. 'Nomenclature for liquid-liquid distribution (solvent extraction) (IUPAC Recommendations 1993)' on page 2379 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199365112373)

Citation: 'solvent extraction' in IUPAC Compendium of Chemical Terminology, 5th ed. International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry; 2025. Online version 5.0.0, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.S05752

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