SOLID-LIQUID EXTRACTION OF METAL-IONS WITH THIXOTROPIC GELS

A solid-liquid extraction method based on thixotropy has been develope d for the preconcentration of metal ions. A gelling agent, N-lauroyl-L -glutamic-alpha,gamma-dibutylamide (G-1), was used as a solid medium c ontaining organic solvent. The G-1 gels liquefy when subjected to simp le shaking and then solidify again when left standing. Thus, reversibl e phase separation is attained at room temperature. The gel extraction behaviour of mercury(II), copper(II) and nickel(II) is demonstrated.