Supported liquid membranes for removal and recovery of metals from waste waters and process streams

Abstract

Abstract Supported liquid membranes (SLMs) are very effective for the removal and recovery of metals from waste waters and process streams since they combine extraction and stripping, into one step. The one‐step membrane process provides the maximum driving force for the separation of a targeted metal, leading to the best possible clean‐up and recovery rates. The stability of the SLM has been ensured with strip dispersion, where the aqueous strip solution is dispersed in the organic membrane solution in a mixer. The strip dispersion formed is circulated from the mixer to the membrane module to provide a constant supply of the organic solution to the membrane pores. We have identified effective SLM systems, operating at a feed pH < 3 for the removal and recovery of copper, zinc, and nickel. Goals of zero discharge and no sludge are achievable.