June 1, 2001
Journal Article

Application of Supercritical Fluids to the Reactive Extraction and Analysis of Toxic Heavy Metals from Environmental Matrices - System Optimisation

Abstract

The extraction of Cu2+, Pb2+, Cd2+ adn Zn2+ utilising supercritical fluid carbon dioxide containing dissolved organophosphorus reagents in shown to be feasible. Using the solubility parameter concept and investigation of a variety of physical parameters favourable extraction conditions of 60 degrees Celcius and 400 atm pressure were determined. Cyanex 302 was found to be the most favourable ligand in terms of stability and ability to complex a range of metal ions. A soil containing substantial amounts of Pb2+ and Cd2+ was studied using SFE and the techniques as found to reduce the levels of leachable metal ions to near US EPA regulatory levels.

Revised: August 10, 2001 | Published: June 1, 2001

Citation

Elshani S., N.G. Smart, Y. Lin, and C.M. Wai. 2001. Application of Supercritical Fluids to the Reactive Extraction and Analysis of Toxic Heavy Metals from Environmental Matrices - System Optimisation. Separation Science and Technology 36, no. 5-6:1197-1210. PNNL-SA-35043.