A novel polymer membrane for extraction applications

In this study, a new type of Aliquat 336/PVC membrane has been made for extraction experiments. This new membrane is capable of holding more Aliquat 336 than previously developed extraction membranes, hence overcoming a major problem that has confronted many researchers for a long time. The new membrane has been used to investigate the rate of extraction for the Cd(II) ion in 2.0 M HCl solution and the effect of membrane thickness on the rate of extraction. The experimental results have shown this new membrane has a promising future in relevant industrial applications. A new method is also used in this study to qualitatively identify the oily substance on the surface of membrane after the extraction experiment was completed. This oily substance has been found to be Aliquat 336.