Adsorption of Cr(III) and Fe(III) on an inorganic–organic silicon hybrid surface

By using tetraethylortosilicate (TEOS) and n-[3(trimethoxysilyl) propyl]-ethylenediamine, a silicon inorganic–organic hybrid matrix with 4.0 mmol g−1 of pendant organic moiety was synthesized. The hybrid matrix was used as a substrate for the adsorption of chromium and iron from their chloride aqueous solutions. The matrix shows a higher affinity towards chromium, with concentrated iron solutions provoking its dissolution. The maximum adsorption capacity towards chromium and iron was 0.56 and 0.38 mmol g−1, respectively.