Solid–liquid extraction of metal ions with thixotropic gels

Abstract

A solid–liquid extraction method based on thixotropy has been developed for the preconcentration of metal ions. A gelling agent, N-lauroyl-L-glutamic-α,γ-dibutylamide (G-1), was used as a solid medium containing organic solvent. The G-1 gels liquefy when subjected to simple shaking and then solidify again when left standing. Thus, reversible phase separation is attained at room temperature. The gel extraction behaviour of mercury(II), copper(II) and nickel(II) is demonstrated.