Thiocyanate separation by imprinted polymeric systems

Novel polymers for the specific recognition of thiocyanate ion (SCN) have been prepared by template polymerization of SCN with chitosan-Zn(II), the N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyl-trimethoxysilan-Zn(II) complex, epichlorohydrin, and tetraethoxysilane. After removal of SCN, the imprinted beads have been used for solid-phase extraction of SCN from aqueous solutions. Optimised conditions for SCN separation are reported with respect to sample pH for the quantitative preconcentration and desorption. Competitive adsorption of fluoride and phosphate has been investigated and selectivity coefficients are given for these ions with respect to SCN.