Separation of Bi(III) and Sb(III) from Cu(II) HCl/H2SO4 Mixed Media by Supported Liquid Membranes Using Cyanex 921 as Carrier

We present a systematic study of the separation of Bi(III) and Sb(III) contained in acidic HCl/H 2 SO 4 aqueous solutions of Cu(II), by SLM, using Cyanex 921 as carrier. The transfer of Sb(III), Bi(III) and Cu(II) was evaluated in order to determine the efficiency and selectivity of the specific SLM developed. Using a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) microporous membrane impregnated with Cyanex 921, as SLM, we studied the influence of the characteristics of the stripping solution and the effect of temperature on the membrane efficiency and stability. Recovery rates of Sb(III) and Bi(III) were close to 99%, while Cu(II) was barely transferred into the stripping solution.