Outlines of the ion exchange characteristics of hydrous oxides

This work gives a critical review of the behaviour of hydrous oxides as ion exchangers. The various physicochemical properties of this important class of adsorbents and the effect of preparation procedures are summarized. Data on the ion exchange kinetics and thermodynamics are presented and discussed. Selectivity is also discussed in terms of the different parameters. Both aqueous and mixed media are considered. In addition, the different sorption mechanisms, some relevant sorption models, and potential applications in chemical separations are given. Moreover, this review attempts to point to the experimental and theoretical confusions now alarmingly met in the literature.