A substance added to a solvent to improve its properties e.g. by increasing the solubility of an extractant, changing interfacial parameters or reducing adsorption losses. Additives used to enhance extraction rates should be called accelerators or catalysts.
Source:
PAC, 1993, 65, 2373. 'Nomenclature for liquid-liquid distribution (solvent extraction) (IUPAC Recommendations 1993)' on page 2381 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199365112373)