Cu (II) removal from tequila using an ion-exchange resin

An ion-exchange resin was employed to remove copper from tequila. Elemental analysis, batch and column copper uptake measurements were performed to assess the extent of metal removal; FTIR and XPS were employed to elucidate the copper complexes formed on the surface of resin; GC was used to investigate resin fouling and the extent of methanol removal. A modified Langmuir isotherm was used to explain adsorption equilibrium data. A ligand density of 2.21 mmol/g as sulphonic group, was measured. Maximum copper uptake by resin was 0.59 mmol/g. GC results from column experiments revealed methanol changes from 311 mg/100 ml anhydrous alcohol (AA) to 212 mg/100 ml AA, complying with Mexican regulations. Tequila solution with copper (5.3 l, 7.3 mg/l) was treated to breakthrough point in column experiments reaching 0.5 mg/l of copper at effluent. These results comply with the Mexican regulation for copper concentration (⩽2 mg/l) showing the promise of resin for industrial applications in removal of copper and methanol from tequila.

Research highlights
► Ion-exchange resin for Cu removal from Mexican tequila is presented.
► Methanol removed from tequila solution.
► Packed bed with resin reached Cu removal that complies with actual regulations.
► Potential of industrial applications in copper and methanol removal from tequila.