Adsorbing colloid flotation separation and polarographic determination of Mo(VI) in water

A method is described for the flotation and determination of Mo(VI) in water at ng/ml levels. Mo(VI) is preconcentrated and separated by adsorbing colloid flotation employing aluminium(III) hydroxide as collector and sodium lauryl sulphate as surfactant at pH 5.3 ± 0.1. The molybdenum content in the froth is estimated by using the catalytic wave of Mo(VI) in the presence of nitrate by charging current compensated d.c. polarography (CCCDCP) or differential pulse polarography (DPP). The effect of variables such as pH, ionic strength, concentration of collector and surfactant, time of stirring and gas flow-rate on the recovery of Mo by flotation is reported. The effects of various cations and anions on the flotation and determination of Mo are studied. This method is employed for the determination of molybdenum in natural fresh water samples.