Qualitative analysis of Cu2+, Co2+, and Ni2+ cations using thin-layer chromatography

The M(DEDTC)2 (M = Cu, Co, or Ni) and M(PyDTC)2 (M = Cu or Co) complexes prepared by reactions of sodium diethyldithiocarbamate and ammonium pyrollidinedithiocarbamate with metal (II) nitrates are examined for qualitative analysis and separation using thin-layer chromatography systems. These complexes and their mixtures are spotted to the activated thin layers of silica gel 60GF254 (Si-60GF254) with a 250-microm thickness. Pure toluene and a toluene-cyclohexane mixture (3:1, v/v) are used as mobile phases for running of the complexes. These chromatographic systems are successfully used for qualitative analysis of corresponding metal cations and separation of components in both M(DEDTC)2 and M(PyDTC)2 complex mixtures.