The solvent extraction of rhenium (VII) from chloride solutions by Cyphos 101-IL in toluene has been studied. Distribution values for the extraction of perrhenate are extremely high leading to almost quantitative extraction. From slope analysis, an anion exchange extraction mechanism is proposed, with formation of a ReO4- association with one Cyphos IL-101 cation. The extraction kinetics are fast, with complete equilibration occurring within 60 s. Under identical conditions, distribution coefficients for Cyphos 101-IL are greater than for Aliquat-336. Extraction of the perrhenate anion does not seem to be negatively impacted by common environmental contaminants including iron, sulphate and nitrate at the pH values tested. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.