Transport and separation of Ag(+) and Zn(2+) by donnan dialysis through a monovalent cation selective membrane.

Donnan Dialysis of Ag(+) and Zn(2+) was investigated through a cation exchange membrane (CMS Neosepta) when a proton concentration difference was maintained between the two sides of the membrane. Developed for the production of brine from sea water, CMS Neosepta showed a higher permeability to monovalent than to bivalent cations. Several physico-chemical parameters have been determined (electrical resistance, membrane potential, sorption of electrolytes, Zn(2+) and Ag(+) diffusion coefficients). The flux of Ag(+) and the diffusion potential in the membrane increase with HNO(3) concentrations. Ag(+) and Zn(2+) can be separated because of the preferential membrane transfer for Ag(+).