Abstract:Germanium is a rare metal widely used in high-tech fields such as infrared technology, optical fibers, and semiconductors, and is recognized as a strategic resource. Due to the scarcity and dispersed distribution of germanium resources, its extraction technology is constrained by material sources, making enrichment challenging. Therefore, the rational development of primary and secondary germanium resources to ensure the stable development of the germanium industry has become an urgent global need. Solvent extraction, with its high separation coefficient, efficiency, selectivity, simple process, and broad applicability, has become the primary research focus for germanium recovery and has seen significant theoretical and applied research advancements. This paper reviews recent advancements in the application of solvent extraction for germanium recovery, focusing on the extraction mechanisms and performance of various extractants, discussing current challenges, and providing an outlook on future trends and prospects.