The use of organofuntionalized silica gel as sequestrating agent for metals

An overview about the homogeneous and heterogeneous methods of synthesizing silylating agents and applications of the organofunctionalized silica-gel samples was explored. The pendant molecules attached covalently to the inorganic surface displayed important properties to act as sequestrating agents for metals in aqueous and non-aqueous solutions. The large variety of basic centres anchored on organic molecules improve the capacity in adsorbing cations. The increase in adsorption is dependent on the number of basic atoms disposed on the pendant molecules on the surface, The combination of acidic and basicity properties favours the selectivity, such is exemplified by the thiol modified silicas towards mercury (II) cations.