Removal of chromium anions with nanofiltration-complexation by using p-sulfonated calix[4]arene

This article describes the removal of chromium anions from aqueous solutions by using nanofiltration-complexation consisting of pilot-scale nanofiltration equipment (Osmonics Sepa CF Membrane Cell) and water-soluble p-sulfonated calix[4]arene ligand. For the determination of optimum removal conditions of the chromium anions, the effect of pH, ligand cavity size, and foreign anions on the retention of the chromium anions in nanofiltration-complexation system was also evaluated. The results showed that water-soluble p-sulfonated calix[4]arene was an effective and selective ligand for the chromium anions over Cl(-), SO(4)(2-) and NO(3)(-) anions in nanofiltration-complexation system at pH 9.4.