Solid phase extractors derived by functionalising sub-micro silica gel with chelating agents and their pH-tunable adsorbing capability towards Pb(II) and Ag(I)

Three novel solid phase extraction agents were developed by functionalising sub-micron sized silica gel with organic functional moieties possessing {SN}-ligating atoms. The extractors were characterised by FTIR and TGA. Their capability of adsorbing the ions Fe(III), Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(II), Cr(VI), Hg(II), Pb(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Ag(I) is described. The extractors show pH-tunable selectivity for Ag(I) and/or Pb(II). By adjusting the pH to 5 or 6, high affinity is found for both Ag(I) and Pb(II), with little or no interference by the other metal ions. At pH values of <2, the extractors become highly selective for Ag(I), with an adsorption capacity of 35 mg g^?1. Little mechanical stirring is required due to the size of the particles. The recovery rates for both Ag(I) and Pb(II) were better 90% even after five repetitive adsorption-desorption cycles.