Abstract

A new sorbent for transition elements was prepared in a one-step synthesis by encapsulation of a pyrazolone ligand in a surfactant-templated silica. This new material was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen physisorption and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The material presents a lamellar symmetry with a pore diameter of 39 Å. The use of a cationic surfactant allows a high loading of ligand (0.43 mol kg⁻¹), associated with complete accessibility of the ligand to the aqueous phase. A sorption capacity of 0.2 mol kg⁻¹ was observed for copper ions in a NaNO₃ 0.01 M medium. Complete elution of copper species is possible with HNO₃ 1 M.