A novel polymer inclusion membrane applied in chromium (VI) separation from aqueous solutions

► Separation of Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solution by non-plasticized PVC/Aliquat 336 PIMs. ► PIM's characterization which also reveals the plasticizing role of the carrier Aliquat 336. ► High selectivity for Cr(VI) in transport processes from aqueous solutions which simulates the real industrial effluents. ► Enhanced transport and reusability properties towards other membranes previously reported for Cr(VI). ► High potential to reduce the price comparing to the plasticized PIMs.