Matrix-induced modification of imprinting effect for Cu2+ adsorption in hybrid silica matrices

Matrix-induced modification of the imprinting effect for Cu2+ adsorption in sol¯gel sorbents has been investigated. This investigation shows that the hydrophobicity of the sol¯gel matrices enhances the imprinting effect and selectivity of the sorbents toward target ions. Modification of the matrix hydrophobicity can be easily achieved by copolymerizing tetramethylorthosilicate and methyltrimethoxysilane or phenyltrimethoxysilane.