Na-4-mica:: Cd2+, Ni2+, Co2+, Mn2+ and Zn2+ ion exchange

Selective cation exchange for divalent transition metals of Cd, Ni, Co, Mn and Zn has been investigated with the high-charge-density sodium fluorophlogopite mica, Na-4-mica. The Na-4-mica was easily and economically prepared by the crystallization from a mixture of NaF, MgO and metakaolin, the latter serves as an inexpensive aluminosilicate source. Ion exchange isotherms for Cd2+, Ni2+, Co2+, Mn2+ and Zn2+ were obtained at room temperature and the thermodynamic functions of the ion exchange equilibria were calculated. The 2Na(+) --> M2+ exchange with the Na-4-mica showed the following selectivity: Zn2+ > Ni2+ approximate to Co2+ approximate to Cd2+ > Mn2+. The interlayer structure of the hydrated Na-4-mica with the open interlayer space in the range 12.1-13.9 Angstrom was retained during the ion-exchange reaction, indicating the possibility of the reversible 2Na(+) reversible arrow M2+ exchange. The basic selective cation exchange studies of the high-charge-density ion exchanger are of relevance in recovery of metals from waste solution, and waste water treatment and disposal.