Abstract: Gallium values are separated and recovered from basic aqueous solutions thereof, e.g., Bayer process aluminate liquors, by liquid/liquid extracting such a basic aqueous solution with an organic phase containing a substituted hydroxyquinoline gallium extractant dissolved in an organic solvent, and whereby the gallium values, as well as sodium and aluminum values, are transferred into the organic phase, separating the organic phase from the basic aqueous phase, next contacting the organic phase with a medium consisting essentially of water to convert the coextracted sodium values into caustic soda, separating such caustic soda from the organic phase (and optionally recycling same to the Bayer process), and then recovering the gallium values from the organic phase thus stripped of sodium values.

Abstract: A descending flow of chlorinated aliphatic polymer is continuously contacted with a second solvent having a higher boiling point than the chlorination solvent to effect a solvent exchange. The polymer to be purified is delivered into the head of the exchange column while the second solvent, for example, xylene, is directed into the sump of the exchange column.