In this study, the selective extraction and stripping conditions of Co(II) from acidic thiocyanate solution containing Co(II) and Ni(II) by ionic liquid based solvent extraction technique (ILBSX) using symetric and asymetric imidazolium bromide salts substituting butyl and isobutyl groups were experimentally optimized. The molecular structure effect of IMs have been determined as main factor to extract Co(II). The executive parameters on stripping and extraction processes such as IMs concentration, pH, thiocyanate concentration, stripping reagent type and concentration and etc. were experimentaly investigated. Molecular changes in the adduct consisting between IMs and Co-SCN, was illuminated by comparison of ATR-FTIR spectrums of pure and Co-SCN loaded IMs.Stochiometric rates of the adduct was verified with slope analysis. In the light of these examinations, Co(SCN) 3 -has been determined as prominent Co-SCN species in aqueous media. Symetric IMs were identified as more effective than asymetric ones on selective separation of Co(II) from Ni(II). Under optimum conditions, 99.20% of Co(II) was extracted and 93.33% of Co(II) was recovered with higher separation factors especially in diluted solution, whereas, Ni(II) extractions were negligible. We have concluded that the separation power of this study is high in Co(II)/Ni(II) containing dilute solutions and it can be used in preconcentration purposes effectively. Downloaded by [University of Connecticut] at 05