Lipid-catalyzed transport of copper(II) through liquid membranes

Abstract

Six long-chained ligands were synthesized and examined for their ability to transport Cu(II) through a liquid membrane. The transport was proton-driven and capable of moving metal ions «up-hill». The time-dependence of the Cu(II) concentrations was determined for each carrier and for all three phases of the liquid membrane system. Thus, it was possible to follow the transfer of Cu(II) from the aqueous source phase to the organic layer and from the organic layer to the aqueous receiving phase. In addition, relative partitioning equilibria of Cu(II) between the organic layer and the aqueous phases were compared