Influence of complexing agents on the adsorption of molybdate and nickel ions on alumina

The effect of complexing agents such as NTA and EDTA on the adsorption characteristics of molybdate and nickel ions on γ-alumina supports was investigated. Complexing agents changed the nature of the charge on these metal ions and strongly influenced the extent of their adsorption on the support surface. In the presence of the complexing ligands, molybdenum uptake on alumina was reduced, but nickel adsorption was enhanced.