Chelate-SAMMS

Research and development is continuing on the preparation and testing of metal-chelating SAMMS. Chelating functional groups, such as EDA, ethylenediamine triacetic acid, pyridine, etc., are attached to the surface of the mesoporous materials using similar chemistry as is used for preparation of the thiol-SAMMS. The chelating group is tailored for the targeted metal; for example, EDA for copper and 1,2-hydroxypyridinone (HOPO) for the actinides. Results have shown that selective removal of metal ions can be accomplished by various chelate-SAMMS forms, and research is continuing to optimize the synthesis and metal loadings.