Scientists from the University of Silesia have developed a method of obtaining special membranes intended primarily for the removal of small amounts of heavy metals from aqueous solutions. The membranes can be used for the determination of toxic metal ions – e.g. lead, chromium or arsenic – by spectroscopic methods.

Environmentally friendly membranes are the result of combining the excellent characteristics of a fibrous material, cellulose, and the advantages of silica. The membranes obtained in this way are mechanically and chemically stable and can be used in acidic, neutral and alkaline environments depending on the type of ion adsorbed.

Appropriate chemical modification of the silica surface improves its adsorption properties and allows for selective adsorption of selected ions. The method of obtaining them is quick and simple, and does not require large financial outlays. The authors of the patented invention are chemists: Prof. Rafał Sitko and Ewa Łukojko.