Utilization of Supramolecular Solvents in the Extraction of Metals

Abstract

This review deals with nano-structured liquids gene­rated from amphiphiles (supramolecular solvents) and their application in the separation and preconcentration of metal ions. Supramolecular solvents can be used in sample preparation in methods such as cloud point extraction (CPE) and coacervative extraction (CAE). CPE involves phase separation of uncharged amphiphiles whereas CAE involves phase separation of ionic amphiphiles. While CPE is well-established and extensively used in metal ion analysis. CAE is mainly used for extraction of various organics and in metal analysis. Their application in separation and preconcentration of various metal ions can be expected.