A process for selectively separating a metallic constituent from other metals and other materials accompanying the metallic constituent in a mixture is described. The process comprises the step of providing the mixture in an aqueous solution such that the metallic constituent forms a complex anion in the solution. One or more of the other metals forms a cation or a complex cation in the solution. Another step includes contacting the solution with one or more additives to form layered double hydroxide (LDH) material in situ such that the complex anion is intercalated within interlayers of the LDH material and wherein one or more of the other metals are incorporated into the LDH material's crystal structure or matrix. Another step involves the addition of an LDH to an aqueous solution. The process involves selectively recovering the metallic constituent from the interlayer of the LDH by subjecting the LDH to a recovery treatment step(s) and as required, methods to modify the LDH to facilitate metal separation and recovery or contaminant stabilisation.
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