Simultaneous sorption of nonionic surfactant (alkylmonoethers) and copper(II) in a weak acid polyacrylic cation exchanger

The mutual influence of copper(II) cations and nonionic surfactant alkylmonoethers on their simultaneous sorption by the hydrogen form of Purolite C 106 polyacrylic acid functionalized cation exchanger was investigated considering the suitability for the prevention of environmental contamination. Sorption isotherms were measured and sorption equilibrium coefficients calculated. The modelling of copper(II) sorption and copper(II) carboxyl complex formation was carried out. The sorption of copper(II) proceeds predominantly by complex (ionic and coordinate) bonding followed by the change in pH, also by single coordinate bonding. The mutual action of copper(II) and alkylmonoethers leads to a decrease in the equilibrium sorption for both copper(II) and the surfactant. The sorption of copper(II) and alkylmonoethers could be applicable for the purification of sewage including copper plating rinsewater from both contaminants simultaneously for the control of copper(II) and the surfactant in sewage effluents. Received: 15 May 2000 Accepted: 9 May 2001