Ion-exchange resin

Ion-exchange resin is a type of polymer that acts as a medium for ion exchange. It is an insoluble matrix (or support structure) normally in the form of small (0.5–1 mm diameter) beads, usually white or yellowish, fabricated from an organic polymer substrate. The beads are typically porous, providing a large surface area on and inside them. The trapping of ions occurs along with the accompanying release of other ions, and thus the process is called ion exchange.

Types of ion-exchange resins

There are multiple types of ion-exchange resins. Most commercial resins are made from polystyrene sulfonate. Other materials used for ion-exchange include polyethyleneamine, and zeolite. These materials are produced by different methods, and are used in different ion-exchange systems.

Applications

Ion-exchange resins are widely used in different separation, purification, and decontamination processes. The most common examples are water softening and water purification. In many cases ion-exchange resins were introduced in such processes as a more flexible alternative to the use of natural or artificial zeolites. Also, ion exchange resins are highly effective in the biodiesel filtration process.

See also

• Cation-exchange resin
• Anion-exchange resin
• Chelating resin
• Ion-exchange membrane
• Ion-exchange chromatography

References

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