This work presents experimental, modeling and simulation studies for Co2+ ion extraction using hollow fiber supported liquid membrane (HFSLM) operated in a recycling mode. Extractant di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) diluted with kerosene has been used as the membrane phase. The Co2+ ion concentration in the aqueous feed phase was varied in the range of 1-3 mM. Also, D2EHPA concentration was varied in the range of 10-30% (v/v). A mass transfer model has been developed considering the complexation and de-complexation reactions to be fast and at equilibrium. Equations for extractant mass balance and counter-ion (H+) transport have also been incorporated in the model. Extraction equilibrium constant (K-ex) for cobalt-D2EHPA system has been estimated from equilibration experiments and found to be 3.48 x 10(-6). It was observed that the model results are in good agreement with the experimental data when diffusivity of metal-complex (D-m) through the membrane phase is 1.5 x 10(-10) m(2)/s. Feed phase pH and strip phase acidity had negligible effect on the extraction profiles of Co2+ ions. An increase in D2EHPA concentration increased extraction rates of Co2+ ions. The membrane phase diffusion step was found to be the controlling resistance to mass transfer. (C) 2012 The Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.