Removal of heavy metals from aqueous solutions using polymer membranes

In this study; separation of Fe(III) and Cu(II) ions from aqueous solutions was investigated by filtration. PVA/cellulose and PVA-Poly(AFEMA)/cellulose ion exchange composite membranes were used in retention processes.In the filtration of Fe(III) solutions, the effects of pH, concentration of solutions and thickness of membrane on the retention and the flux were studied. The maximum retention was found as 89,05 % for Fe(III) solution at the pH of 6, concentration of Fe(III) solution of 10-5 M, pressure of 60 psi, stirred velocity of 1,5 by using PVA-Poly(AFEMA)/cellulose membrane (MII).In the filtration of Cu(II) solutions, the effects of pH, concentration of solutions and thickness of membrane on the retention and the flux were investigated. The maximum retention was found as 71,35 % for Cu(II) solution at the pH of 5, concentration of Cu(II) solution of 10-5 M, pressure of 60 psi, stirred velocity of 1,5 by using PVA-Poly(AFEMA)/cellulose membrane (MII).Keywords: Filtration, Ion Exchange Membrane, Composite Membrane