Synthesis and characterization of a new cation exchanger-zirconium(IV)iodotungstate: separation and determination of metal ion contents of synthetic mixtures, pharmaceutical preparations and standard reference material.

Samples of zirconium(IV)iodotungstate have been synthesized under varying mixing order and ratios of aqueous solution of potassium iodate, sodium tungstate and zirconium oxychloride at pH 1. A tentative formula was proposed on the basis of chemical composition, FTIR and thermogravimetric studies. The material shows a capacity of 0.68 meq g(-1) (for K+) which can be retained up to 200 degrees C. pH titration data reveal its monofunctional behavior. The distribution coefficient values of metal ions have been determined in various solvent systems. A number of important and analytically difficult quantitative separations of metal ions have been achieved using columns packed with this exchanger. In order to demonstrate practical utility of this material, Hg2+ and Pb2+ have been selectively separated and determined in the synthetic mixtures. Assay of Al3+ and Mg2+ in commercial tablets and analysis of lead in the standard reference material have also been attempted.