Bacillus sp immobilized on Amberlite XAD-4 resin as a biosorbent for solid phase extraction of thorium prior to UV-vis spectrometry determination

Abstract

A method has been developed for the preconcentration of Th prior to its determination by UV-vis spectrophotometry after complexation with Arsenazo Ill. A column was packed with Amber lite XAD-4 resin containing immobilized Bacillus sp. as a solid phase extractant. Parameters such as pH of the solution and sample, the concentration of Th, the volume and type of eluent, flow rate and effect of matrix interference were studied. The optimum pH for the sorption of Th is 5.0, and quantitative eluation occurs with 1 mol L-1 HCl. The tolerance limits of some electrolytes were also studied. The loading capacity was determined to be 17.2 mg g(-1) The method was applied to the determination of Th in real ore sample and validated by analyzing a certified reference samples (NCS DC-73350; poplar leaves).