Automatic trace-enrichment of bisphenol A by a novel continuous flow liquid membrane extraction technique

Abstract

Bisphenol A was enriched by a novel continuous flow liquid membrane extraction technique, which is based on the combination of continuous flow liquid-liquid extraction and a supported liquid membrane. Related parameters such as flow rates, liquid membrane solvents, and pH of donor and acceptor were optimized. Using dichloromethane as liquid membrane, over 200-fold enrichment of 50 μg L–1 BPA was obtained after a 40-min enrichment time. The major advantages of this technique are that it provides a relatively high enrichment factor, freedom of choice and long term stability of the liquid membrane, much lower consumption of organic phase, typically 0.05 mL min–1, scope for full automation, and easy on-line coupling to various detectors.