Looking back at the mining boom of the mid-20th century, it’s clear that extractants changed the way metals were separated from ore. In the 1970s, scientists sought compounds with strong selectivity for certain metals, especially in hydrometallurgy. Cyanex 272, known chemically as bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic acid, started gaining traction due to its knack for extracting cobalt from nickel. Canadian and European developers drove early production, but demand for better selectivity in solvent extraction fueled further research. Down the line, manufacturing scaled up, patents piled on, and the chemical found a permanent spot in separation plants that feed electric vehicle batteries and specialty alloys. Advances rarely leap from a vacuum—hard-won laboratory breakthroughs prompted real-world adoption once industries realized its economic value outweighed the cost of custom formulation.
Cyanex 272 now comes as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid. It smells a bit sharp, almost medicinal, with a characteristic organophosphorus tang. Most industrial suppliers bottle the extractant in steel drums or HDPE containers to prevent evaporation and chemical attack. Demand for selective cobalt extraction—especially from mixed sulfate solutions—brings Cyanex 272 to refineries across continents. Over decades, miners and chemists have agreed it carves out a best-in-class niche, letting plants separate metals that stubbornly ride together using many other methods. That reliability comes from years of field testing, adaptation, and discussion among technologists faced with the inconsistent, dirty feedstock that defines real-world ores.
At room temperature, Cyanex 272 stands out as a viscous liquid with a density around 0.95 g/cm3. Its boiling point climbs past two hundred degrees Celsius, and it doesn’t dissolve in water very well. Its acidic hydrogen likes to react, lending the molecule excellent metal-binding strength—especially with divalent cations like cobalt(II). It’s all about the phosphinic acid group; its combination with bulky alkyl chains lays the foundation for selective extraction. The molecule’s hydrophobic arms make it easy to transfer between organic and aqueous phases in large, open-air mixers. In my time around solvent extraction plants, the faint chemical slick and smell of Cyanex 272 spelled productive shifts and profitable runs for struggling facilities.
Commercial suppliers label Cyanex 272 under various quality grades, usually denoted as “reagent” or “industrial.” Material Safety Data Sheets insist on clear hazard pictograms, usually flammable and corrosive symbols, plus instructions for spillage, fire fighting, and PPE. Suppliers include batch numbers and chemical assay results—typically above 95% purity, offering predictable extraction results. The product often arrives with stabilizers to handle storage in humid warehouses, and manufacturers cite typical free acid content, color indexes, and viscosity ranges so process engineers can tweak pumps and mixers accordingly. Reliable labeling prevents confusion with similar-looking extractants, like Cyanex 301 or 302, which cause headaches if added by mistake.
The main production route starts with the reaction of phosphorus trichloride with branched 2,4,4-trimethylpentyl alcohol under controlled conditions. Alkylation and hydrolysis follow, yielding the desired phosphinic acid and stripping out impurities with multiple washes and distillation steps. The crux of the preparation comes down to controlling the branching of the alkyl chains—straight-chain analogs fail to provide the same performance. The scalability of this preparation solved many headaches during the initial ramp-up phase. My contacts at chemical production plants always emphasized the fine margin between a good batch and a costly recall. Every modification or tweak in process parameters echoes in the chemical fingerprint of Cyanex 272, which shows up in its extraction curves.
Cyanex 272 readily complexes with transition metal cations, forming extractable ion-pairs in organic solvents like kerosene or Shellsol D70. Lab technicians often tweak its extraction profile by partially neutralizing it with ammonia or sodium hydroxide, tailoring loading curves for different pH windows. Phosphinic acid undergoes esterification, alkali neutralization, or combination with synergists like TBP or LIX reagents. In research labs, modifications such as adding “crown” groups or tailoring the side chains unlock higher selectivity or improved kinetics for tough leachates. These tweaks matter, especially for emerging rare earth separations or recycling electronics, where the competition between similar ions can break standard solutions.
Cyanex 272 travels under many names, including 2,4,4-trimethylpentylphosphinic acid, bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic acid, and reagent-grade names like CYEX 272 or D2EHPA (though the latter is technically a close relative, not an exact match). Manufacturers like Solvay, Cytec, and occasionally Chinese producers put their own twist on naming, with lot codes and proprietary blends appearing on invoices. Some operators refer to it simply as “272,” or even just “the extractant,” betraying its status as a staple rather than an exotic specialty chemical.
Working with Cyanex 272 is not without hazards. Its moderate acidity can irritate skin and eyes, and long hours in the plant mean gloves and goggles stay essential. Spills create slippery messes and chemical risks, so workers sweep up with absorbent pads and keep emergency showers ready. The extractant’s volatility is low, but open drums still waft characteristic fumes. Inhalation over long periods sometimes causes headaches or mild respiratory distress. Disposal of spent extractant must focus on local environmental compliance, as oxidation products and breakdown residues can build up, especially where plant maintenance runs hot and fast. International transport requires correct UN codes and hazard labeling, and strict adherence prevents cross-contamination or regulatory headaches at border checks.
Main roles for Cyanex 272 land in cobalt and nickel separation, especially leach solutions from laterite and sulfide ores. Demand surges from battery manufacturers put pressure on suppliers to secure consistent volumes, pushing up prices and complicating inventory for junior mining outfits. Downstream, processors use the extractant for separation of rare earth metals or to clean up copper electrolytes. Research teams keep chasing better ways to recycle spent lithium-ion batteries, and Cyanex 272 regularly factors into their flowsheets. The chemical’s broad use makes it a mainstay from African cobalt mines to Canadian nickel refineries and Southeast Asian electronics recyclers.
Development work focuses on tuning extraction selectivity, reducing degradation, and lowering the environmental impact of spent extractant. Researchers test novel diluents—less toxic than kerosene—and run trial batches with synergists to optimize metal recovery. In academic labs, teams build complex kinetic models to pinpoint bottlenecks and predict performance under variable ore grades. Startups working in battery recycling blend Cyanex 272 with proprietary additives that speed up cobalt removal without bringing along unwanted manganese or copper. Patents stack up as production facilities chase lower solvent losses and measure partition coefficients with ever-greater precision. Whenever fresh regulations hit, development labs hustle to keep Cyanex 272 at the cutting edge, bridging cost, throughput, and compliance.
Safety and environmental studies track breakdown products in air, soil, and water near extraction plants. Acute oral toxicity tests in rodents show moderate toxicity, but industrial hygiene benchmarks set exposure limits well below levels that cause problems in humans. Toxicologists track how Cyanex 272 metabolizes and binds in living tissue, with a watchful eye on ecosystem health—especially aquatic life that may contact diluted runoff or accidental discharges. Findings suggest careful handling and disposal minimize lasting effects, but regulators keep a close eye on plants running high extraction volumes. My own time around such facilities involved daily routine: spill prevention, monitoring effluent, and training new hires on emergency protocols.
Electric vehicles, green energy storage, and sophisticated alloys all push demand for refined cobalt and nickel. Cyanex 272 builds its future on reliability and adaptability. Recycling streams grow in importance as mineral-rich nations close ranks on exports and consumers demand lower-carbon supply chains. Universities investigate biologically-friendly modifications, and startups explore ways to make the molecule from renewable feedstocks—a response to scrap shortages and volatile prices. Modern plant managers bet on smarter process control, using real-time analytics to eke every last gram of metal out of feedstock and minimize extractant loss. Networked sensors and adaptive feedback loops tie directly to dosing tanks and separation stages. Across the board, Cyanex 272’s reputation rests on balancing chemistry, safety, and economics—a tough challenge for any chemical, but one that’s carried it through five decades of rapid industrial change.
Ask anyone in the mining industry about liquid-liquid extraction, and Cyanex 272 will likely come up. Its chemical name—bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) phosphinic acid—may sound intimidating, but its role stays straightforward: Cyanex 272 pulls valuable metals out of leach solutions with a precision that’s hard to match. I first heard about it from a friend working in hydrometallurgy who described how it simplified the tough job of separating metals like cobalt from nickel, especially in the production of batteries.
In the battery era, every gram of cobalt counts. Most extraction methods struggle to tease cobalt away from nickel because their chemical properties look so similar. Cyanex 272 sticks out for its ability to target cobalt with a steady hand. According to research published in Hydrometallurgy, this chemical offers both high selectivity and efficiency. From what I’ve seen in recent years, mines chasing sustainable lithium-ion battery components trust this extractant to help recover cobalt where older solutions have failed.
Concerns over environmental safety shape every conversation about chemical reagents these days. Cyanex 272 gives process engineers an edge since its selectivity cuts down on waste. Fewer byproducts mean lower treatment costs and less environmental cleanup. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency lists responsible use of such reagents as a step toward safer industrial waste management. Having seen tailings ponds polluted by excess chemicals, I support any shift that cuts risks for neighboring communities.
Battery manufacturing keeps driving demand for critical metals. The International Energy Agency predicts a steep climb in cobalt use through 2040, powered by the rise in electric vehicle adoption. Cyanex 272 helps manufacturers keep up by making recovery more effective, especially in places where ore quality drops and every percent counts. This demand also keeps prices in check, since supply bottlenecks usually mean higher costs for everyone—from car buyers to energy storage developers.
Real mines rarely have ideal conditions; pH swings, impurities, and unpredictable feedstock often throw a wrench into even well-established processes. Cyanex 272 handles these curveballs better than many alternatives. In my experience collaborating with miners, they value a reagent that saves on acid consumption and minimizes the need for constant process tweaks. Less fiddling with the system means saved labor and fewer production pauses.
Innovation in hydrometallurgy often starts with small efficiency gains. Lessons from studies and field reports show that blending Cyanex 272 with other reagents can sharpen results further, making extraction even more precise. Universities and industry research labs continue testing combinations that may lower environmental impact or unlock new sources of metal. The chemical’s success keeps pressure on alternatives—one day, something greener or cheaper could take its place, but for now, Cyanex 272 holds its ground.
As battery technology evolves, demand for pure cobalt and nickel will only rise. Cyanex 272 isn’t a magic bullet, but it represents smart use of chemistry to solve challenging resource problems. Outside mining, engineers see opportunity for this extractant in recycling spent electronics and batteries, opening the door to urban mining solutions that recover metals without digging new holes in the ground. Responsible chemical handling, better waste management, and ongoing research can help keep Cyanex 272 at the forefront, all while reducing the strain on the environment and meeting the needs of a high-tech world.
Cyanex 272, also called bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic acid, carries the chemical formula C16H35O2P. This molecule relies on a phosphinic acid group, linking two bulky 2,4,4-trimethylpentyl chains to a phosphorus center. Those big hydrocarbon tails nudge Cyanex 272 toward oily, hydrophobic behavior. In plain language, the stuff floats on water, making it easier to strip metals from a dilute mix by yanking them into an organic phase.
The structure matters, no question about it. The phosphinic acid group reacts eagerly with metal ions like cobalt and nickel, which show up in everything from batteries to stainless steel. Across the world, mining outfits and recycling operations pick Cyanex 272 for these abilities.
Organizations search for precise ways to separate valuable metals because they want to dodge waste and limit contamination. Extractants like Cyanex 272 slot right into that need. The molecule’s strong phosphorus-oxygen bond stands tough against heat and chemical wear. High selectivity means it grabs certain metal ions, like cobalt, over others such as nickel, even in complicated mixtures. This selectivity comes from those 2,4,4-trimethylpentyl groups. Bulky, branched chains keep the molecule from binding too loosely or too tightly.
Factories value Cyanex 272 because it doesn’t dissolve in water but mixes well with organic solvents like kerosene. During solvent extraction, companies can move metals out of an aqueous solution and into the organic solvent, then pull the pure metal out later.
Cyanex 272’s full name—bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic acid—tells you what to expect. Each “2,4,4-trimethylpentyl” tail consists of an eight-carbon chain, twisted by three methyl groups. Those branches make the molecule big and awkward, which means it stays in the organic layer and avoids sliding back into the water. The phosphorus atom forms a direct double bond to oxygen, creating a phosphinic acid group. That’s the part that latches onto positively charged metal ions.
Safety always needs reviewing. Cyanex 272’s organic nature demands good ventilation and protective gloves. Though it earns a spot in many industrial settings, spills and improper disposal threaten waterways and soil. In my work near refineries, I’ve watched how a casual approach quickly gives way to strict handling procedures once people see the risks and costs.
Cyanex 272 brings better yields and cleaner metal products, but industries want even more control over environmental impacts. Routine monitoring—on-site sensors and lab tests—helps spot leaks early. Switching to closed-loop systems limits accidental releases. Chemists have tweaked Cyanex 272’s structure over the years, searching for tweaks that capture metals more precisely or work in milder conditions. That, in turn, cuts down on harsh acids and heating.
The push for batteries and renewable energy systems only sharpens interest in better extractants. Recyclers now recover metals from spent electronics and car batteries by harnessing chemical properties like those packed into Cyanex 272. Smarter extraction recipes save money and shield the environment—two things that always come up if you’ve spent time in the field.
Cyanex 272 isn’t just another name lost in the shuffle of extractants. Anyone who’s worked along a hydrometallurgical production line knows the balance between science and hustle—especially with metals like cobalt and nickel at stake. This phosphinic acid-based extractant often makes the difference in separating metals where purity pays the bills, especially as demand for batteries and specialized alloys keeps climbing.
A tank of mixed metal solutions presents a puzzle: valuable metals tangled with one another in acidic liquors or leachates. Cyanex 272 steps in right after leaching. The extractant’s phosphinic acid group bonds with metal ions, especially cobalt and nickel, in a solvent extraction circuit. Each shift on site, operators mix the organic phase containing Cyanex 272 with aqueous metal solutions. Contact between the phases draws specific metal ions—usually cobalt—into the organic phase, pulling them away from similar metals like nickel.
Years of plant experience show this selectivity isn’t just a quirk of molecular design; it translates to higher recovery rates and, crucially, lower downstream separation costs. Data from mining operations in Africa and Australia show significant gains in both cobalt purity and recovery thanks to this selectivity. It comes down to better bottom lines and real jobs depending on keeping that process tight.
No process survives long in the field without a few headaches. Operators often complain about high acid consumption, and Cyanex 272 is no different. Its chemistry means running at relatively high pH, usually around 5.5 to 6.0, so plants need extra pH control infrastructure. There’s also the issue of phase separation—sometimes, emulsions form, gumming up solvent extraction circuits and slowing down operations. Environmental compliance adds another layer, since losses of extractant into wastewater mean fines and extra cleanup.
Personal stories from technicians underline the hassle of phase separation, especially on hot days when plant cooling struggles. A poorly separated phase chews through resources and time. Having been on the late shift cleaning up after one of these messes, I’ve seen firsthand that robust process control beats any fancy marketing from the supplier.
Operators and managers have started tweaking formulations or pairing Cyanex 272 with synergists to tackle selectivity and kinetic issues. Recent studies, from both universities and mining companies, highlight mixing Cyanex 272 with other co-extractants like Cyanex 302 for better phase disengagement and faster working cycles.
Process automation helps too. Automated control maintains the right pH, organic-to-aqueous ratios, and temperature, preventing downtime and maintaining consistent yields. At the same time, training for workers in safe chemical handling lowers environmental risk and punch-list headaches.
Ultimately, any plant using Cyanex 272 needs to think beyond immediate efficiency. Closed-loop systems that recycle extractants and limit discharge protect both the environment and plant profitability. Companies that invest in cleaner processes stand a better chance of surviving as environmental scrutiny ramps up. Every worker on the floor deserves tools—and processes—that work for them, not just for the shareholders or end users.
Cyanex 272, a well-known solvent extraction reagent, gets heavy use in metal processing and hydrometallurgy projects all over the world. During a past site visit, I saw operators working with it daily to separate cobalt and nickel. The air in the plant had a chemical bite, even with ventilation running, driving home how easy it is to underestimate the risks. Skin irritation, lung trouble, and eye injuries keep showing up in medical reports connected to this chemical. Overconfidence leads straight to careless shortcuts, so frontline workers deserve straight talk about what controls actually make a difference.
I remember more than one shift where someone popped out to transfer a few liters and threw on only safety glasses. That’s not enough. Cyanex 272 gives off vapors that irritate eyes and airways. Full face shields and chemical splash goggles both block direct contact and limit vapor exposure. Well-fitted nitrile gloves beat latex or bare hands—the liquid can soak through cheap gloves fast. No open sleeves; heavy-duty lab coats or chemical suits cover skin. To stop accidental inhalation, use a half-mask respirator with organic vapor cartridges, especially in less-ventilated transfer stations.
No PPE substitutes for good engineering. Extraction sections need fume hoods or local exhaust to grab airborne chemicals before they spread. On older lines without upgraded hoods, I saw visible vapor hanging over drums. This stuff isn’t just unpleasant—it adds up in small doses and can trigger headaches, throat pain, or worse. Plant managers or supervisors can spot ventilation gaps with a simple smoke test or air sampling, then tweak fan placement until numbers fall below set limits.
Labeling sounds routine but saves time during emergencies. If there’s a spill, unlabeled drums make things chaotic. Every Cyanex 272 drum ought to show hazard symbols, risk phrases, and directions for proper cleanup. Spill response kits should live close to working areas: absorbent pads, chemical-resistant socks, and disposal bags. If the chemical hits concrete or clothing, quick work with decontamination showers or eyewash stations limits the damage. I’ve watched drills turn into real-time events—fast response made the difference between a simple cleanup and a lost-time injury.
People pick up on safe habits through hands-on drills and tool talks, not just binders of technical data. New hires learn how to transfer Cyanex 272 into working vessels and react to leaks by watching experienced techs, not from a slideshow. Supervisors helping staff understand what symptoms to watch for—nose burning, dizziness, or skin redness—catch incidents well before a doctor gets called.
Old process solutions, wipes, or residue need careful, legal disposal. Pouring any leftover material into regular drains or bins risks polluting groundwater or harming local wildlife. As environmental standards keep tightening, extra steps like closed-loop waste storage and professional collection routes shield both the company and community from trouble.
Some companies earn top safety marks by running peer audits and swapping stories—nobody knows the real-life challenges like the people doing the work. Even the best controls sometimes miss edge cases, so culture matters as much as hardware. Managers staying visible and willing to take feedback build trust, making it easier to speak up about hazards or near-misses. That kind of openness, layered with the basics above, lowers risk and keeps people going home healthy after every shift.
Chemical companies and research labs often rely on Cyanex 272 for separating metals, especially cobalt and nickel. This extraction agent helps clean up wastewater streams and refine critical minerals. Production in mining, batteries, and even electronics often includes steps with Cyanex 272. Without it, certain industrial recycling and purification processes would slow to a crawl. A trained chemist with four years in a lithium lab has seen Cyanex 272 end up on purchase request forms more often than almost any other specialty solvent extractant.
This chemical doesn’t sit on the shelves of local hardware stores. Instead, buyers look to major chemical suppliers. Industry names like Solvay, Sigma-Aldrich, Fisher Scientific, and Alfa Aesar usually show up in procurement spreadsheets. For larger bulk orders, especially in drums or totes, buyers often go directly to the manufacturer or their official regional distributor. Contacting agents in China or India might save some money, but shipping hazardous materials sometimes adds licensing headaches and extra paperwork. Domestic sources remain the first stop for most professional labs and mining companies across North America or the EU because they follow regulations more closely.
Company websites list their customer service or sales email addresses. Inquiry forms on these sites collect contact details and request-driven details such as required volume, purity, and delivery windows. Some suppliers demand proof of business or even special licenses, thanks to regulations on selling organophosphorus compounds. For anyone just starting the search, a call or email with a specific CAS number (17984-08-4) and intended use streamlines the quotation process.
Chemical pricing rarely stays static. In the case of Cyanex 272, price per kilogram tends to float anywhere from $50 to $200 based on the purchased quantity, delivery location, and market supply. Solvay, the primary manufacturer, sells at a premium because of strict quality standards and high demand from battery and mining firms. During supply chain crunches or spikes in demand for battery metals, prices do climb fast.
Labs buying in small bottles—maybe up to 500 grams—usually see a markup compared to buyers ordering drums for an extraction line. My own purchasing experience in a Western lab put 500 g at around $180 in 2023 from a mainstream catalog supplier, including shipping and hazardous materials fees. Once, after the COVID-19 pandemic, delayed ocean shipments bumped a drum price up almost 30% in just three months according to our procurement team. Hidden fees also arrive for international freight, hazmat surcharges, and waste disposal costs if you’re buying for business use. Budget planning in a lab or pilot plant often bumps right against these variable costs.
This isn’t a substance for backyard chemistry or hobby labs. Regulations classify it as hazardous. Sellers want to see proof you know what you’re handling and have procedures for safe storage, use, and disposal. For research institutions, this means keeping MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) up to date, holding the right storage permits, and tracking volumes for regulatory audits. Even some legit buyers get refused by overseas suppliers because they can’t show compliance paperwork.
Consortium purchasing, where several labs or companies group orders, sometimes cuts overall cost. Some companies sign annual supply contracts to lock in lower rates or at least secure a steady allocation. For budget crunches, recycled Cyanex 272 sometimes finds a use, though only in operations able to purify spent extractant on-site. Faced with price hikes, pivoting to alternative extractants or running smaller batches might help squeeze through until supply stabilizes.
Purchasing Cyanex 272 means navigating major suppliers, meeting regulatory demands, and watching a price tag that rarely sits still. Experienced buyers keep direct lines with multiple suppliers, maintain solid compliance records, and plan orders ahead for the sake of production schedules and research timelines.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) phosphinic acid |
| Other names |
Bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic acid
Di-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) phosphinic acid |
| Pronunciation | /ˈsaɪ.ə.nɛks tuː ˈsɛv.ən.ti tuː/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 936-69-4 |
| 3D model (JSmol) | `C1=CC(=CC=C1C(=O)OP(=O)(C2CCCC2)OC3CCCC3)C` |
| Beilstein Reference | 4712930 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:131357 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL2103836 |
| ChemSpider | 85618 |
| DrugBank | DB13848 |
| ECHA InfoCard | ECHA InfoCard: 100.107.804 |
| EC Number | 013-011-00-2 |
| Gmelin Reference | Gmelin Reference: **105214** |
| KEGG | C17074 |
| MeSH | D010952 |
| PubChem CID | 9883616 |
| RTECS number | OV8575000 |
| UNII | Q31L1JPL1U |
| UN number | UN3077 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C16H35O2PS |
| Molar mass | 386.6 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear, pale yellow liquid |
| Odor | Slightly amine-like |
| Density | 0.96 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | Insoluble |
| log P | 5.3 |
| Vapor pressure | < 0.01 mmHg (20°C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 6.37 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 6.37 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -7.6E-6 |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.486 |
| Viscosity | 18.2 mPa·s |
| Dipole moment | 3.625 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 489.29 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Causes severe skin burns and eye damage. |
| GHS labelling | GHS02, GHS05, GHS07, GHS08 |
| Pictograms | GHS05,GHS07,GHS08 |
| Signal word | Danger |
| Hazard statements | H302, H314, H410 |
| Precautionary statements | P264, P280, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P310 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | Health: 2, Flammability: 1, Instability: 0, Special: - |
| Flash point | 138 °C |
| Autoignition temperature | 615 °C |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 (oral, rat): > 5000 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | > 3,982 mg/kg |
| NIOSH | SCY44750 |
| REL (Recommended) | 0.1-1.0% |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | Unknown |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Cyanex 301
Cyanex 302 Cyanex 471X |
