206-632-6206 info@brooksapplied.com

Cobalt & Iron Cyanide Complexes Analysis

Contact Us

Determination of Hexacyanocobaltate(III) (cobalt cyanide) and Hexacyanoferrate(III) (ferricyanide) in Waste and Natural Waters

Cobalt is recognized as an environmental contaminant with toxic effects on aquatic ecosystems and human health, making it a priority for removal from industrial and municipal waste streams. However, persistent forms such as Hexacyanocobaltate(III) (a highly stable, anionic cobalt complex) may evade standard remediation methods.

While less toxic than free cobalt ions, the stability of this complex can compromise treatment outcomes. Understanding its presence is essential for assessing remediation efficacy and refining waste management strategies.

Our Analytical Method

Brooks Applied Labs offers a proprietary method that accurately identifies and quantifies Hexacyanocobaltate(III) and Hexacyanoferrate(III) (ferricyanide) in natural and wastewaters:

    • Separation and quantification of Hexacyanocobaltate(III) using anion chromatography coupled with ICP-MS.
    • Comparison to total cobalt concentrations to determine the proportion of cobalt present as this stable complex.
    • Estimation of free cobalt and other species, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of cobalt speciation in the sample.
    • In-house total and dissolved cobalt analysis, available as a complementary service.

This method is also applicable to other stable metal-cyano complexes, such as Hexacyanoferrate(III) (ferricyanide), as illustrated in Figure 1.

In addition to analytical services, we offer treatability studies tailored to client-specific needs. Our team is experienced in developing custom solutions for complex waste streams and is available to discuss options beyond our standard methods.

Overlay of three species separated via anion chromatography and quantified using ICP-MS.

Figure 1. Overlay of three species separated via anion chromatography and quantified using ICP-MS.

This method is also applicable to other stable metal-cyano complexes, such as Hexacyanoferrate(III) (ferricyanide), as illustrated in Figure 1.

In addition to analytical services, we offer treatability studies tailored to client-specific needs. Our team is experienced in developing custom solutions for complex waste streams and is available to discuss options beyond our standard methods.

Overlay of three species separated via anion chromatography and quantified using ICP-MS.

Figure 1. Overlay of three species separated via anion chromatography and quantified using ICP-MS.