An Innovative Approach on the Separation of Metal

Polystyrene-grafted-polyglycidol (PS-PG), a water-compatible resin, is applied for the extraction of precious metal in effluents of electroplating process. The extractions of gold (I) and silver (I) cyanide using this resin are investigated. More than 99% of gold and 99% of silver ions of the originally dissolved could be extracted from the aqueous phase to polymer phase. Recycling of the resins is possible and no deterioration in extraction performance was observed. Thiolation on the chemical structure shows improvement on the extraction capability and separation efficiency. The PS-PG group resin is a good option for metal extraction and separation because it is economical, environmental-friendly, non-toxic, non-flammable and inexpensive.