Abstract: A liquid-liquid two-phase extraction process in which a feed solution is introduced into an intermediate stage of a multistage extraction apparatus. The solution is water and one or more valuable material to be recovered by extraction. An organic extractant is introduced into one end of the apparatus. The extractant is a solvent and flows through the apparatus. The valuable material is extracted from the feed solution to provide a charged organic phase. An aqueous extractant having water is introduced into another end of the apparatus to wash the charged organic phase. The aqueous extractant flows through the multistate extraction apparatus countercurrent to the extractant and contributes to the aqueous phase. The organic extractant is divided into at least two streams prior to introducing the organic extractant into the apparatus. Each stream is introduced into the apparatus at different stages, both ahead of the intermediate stage.