A Polymer Inclusion Membrane for Sensing Metal Complexation in Natural Waters

Metal speciation studies are of great importance in assessing metal bioavailability aquatic environments. Functionalized membranes a simple tool to perform chemical speciation. In this study, we have prepared and tested polymer inclusion membrane (PIM) made the cellulose triacetate (CTA), extractant di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA), plasticizer 2-nitrophenyloctyl ether (NPOE) as sensor for Zn Cu complexation studies. This PIM, incorporated device with an 0.01 M HNO3 receiving solution, is shown effectively transport free ions, it demonstrated that presence ligands form stable complexes divalent metallic such ethylenediaminetetraacetic (EDTA) humic (HA), greatly influences accumulation metals phase due increasing fraction complexed feed phase. Moreover, effect major ions found natural waters has been investigated, calcium did not decrease either or Cu. Finally, PIM used successfully evaluate river water affected by pollution.