Chemical modification of silica surface by immobilization of functional groups for extractive concentration of metal ions.

Increased utilization of mechanically stable synthetic matrices particularly silica gel as a solid support and its surface modification either by impregnation of organic ligands directly or covalent grafting through spacer unit for extractive concentration of trace elements are highlighted in the present article. Experimental evidences for existence of surface silanol and its chemical nature have explored the idea of silica surface modification. Recent methods of development in functionalized silica synthesis by attachment of various ligands or organic reagents to the silica surface and techniques of characterization of the modified surface have been reported. Analytical applications of various modified silica surfaces, in particular, adsorption of trace elements taking separation and preconcentration into account from complex synthetic mixture as well as natural water is presented.