Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning Models for Predicting Viscosity in Tri-n-Butyl Phosphate Mixtures Using Experimental Data

Tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) is essential in the chemical industry for dissolving and purifying various inorganic acids and metals, especially in hydrometallurgical processes. Recent advancements suggest that machine learning can significantly improve the prediction of TBP mixture viscosities, saving time and resources while minimizing exposure to toxic solvents. This study evaluates the effectiveness of five machine learning algorithms for automating TBP mixture viscosity prediction. Using 511 measurements collected across different compositions and temperatures, the neural network (NN) model proved to be the most accurate, achieving a Mean Squared Error (MSE) of 0.157% and an adjusted R2 (a measure of how well the model predicts the variability of the outcome) of 99.72%. The NN model was particularly effective in predicting the viscosity of TBP + ethylbenzene mixtures, with a minimal deviation margin of 0.049%. These results highlight the transformative potential of machine learning to enhance the efficiency and precision of hydrometallurgical processes involving TBP mixtures, while also reducing operational risks.