Metal sulfide ion exchangers: superior sorbents for the capture of toxic and nuclear waste-related metal ions

摘要

Metal sulfide ion-exchangers (>MSIEs) represent a new addition to the field of ion exchange materials. This is a growing class of materials that display exceptional selectivity and rapid sorption kinetics for soft or relatively soft metal ions as a result of their soft basic frameworks. Without requiring functionalization, they outperform the most efficient sulfur-functionalized materials. This is the first review focusing on this class of materials; it covers the most important >MSIEs, focusing on their synthesis, structural features and ion-exchange chemistry. Furthermore, recent developments in the engineered and composite forms of >MSIEs are described. Future research opportunities are also discussed in the hope of inspiring additional scientists to engage in this new area of research on sulfidic ion-exchange materials.