Synthesis and characterization of a new resin functionalized with 2-naphthol-3,6-disulfonic acid and its application for the speciation of chromium in natural water.

A polystyrene divinyl benzene (8%) copolymer has been functionalized by coupling it through NN group with 2-naphthol-3,6-disulfonic acid (NDSA). The resulting resin has been characterized by elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis and infrared spectra. The hydrogen ion, water regain and metal ion capacities of the resin have been determined. Two forms of chromium show different exchange capacities at different pH values, viz. Cr(III) selectively retained at pH 6.5 whereas Cr(VI) retained at pH 1.5. Hence complete separation of the two forms of chromium is possible. The kinetic studies show that the exchange of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) follows second-order kinetics. The metal ion concentration was measured by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The method has been successfully applied for the speciation of chromium in natural water samples.