Zn(II), Cd(II) and Cu(II) separation through organic–inorganic Hybrid Membranes containing di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid or di-(2-ethylhexyl) dithiophosphoric acid as a carrier

A membrane process for metal recovery from aqueous solutions was studied. Metal ions diffused from the feed solution to the stripping phase through an Hybrid Membrane containing di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) and/or di-(2-ethylhexyl) dithiophosphoric acid (D2EHDTPA) as a carrier. Such membranes were prepared by a sol–gel route including cellulose triacetate and polysiloxanes. Transport behaviour was evaluated for both carriers under similar experimental conditions. The transport experiments reported here concerned transport at different cycles and selectivity towards different metal ions. Using D2EHPA the membrane provided a selective transport of zinc to the stripping compartment of the membrane cell, while copper and cadmium remained in the feed compartment. Whereas, using D2EHDTPA as carrier the transport rate increased and the selectivity profiles were inverted in relation with those of D2EHPA. With a mixture of both extracting agents it was observed an intermediate behaviour in selective transport, being possible to modulate it.