The aim of this work was to evaluate the interaction between natural and synthetic macromolecules with the zinc ion (Zn+2) in aqueous solution. Polyacrylamide, poly(acrylic acid) and poly(acrylamide-co-acrylic acid) were prepared and natural products (tannins) were extracted and purified from commercial products. The methodology to evaluate the macromolecule/zinc ion interaction was based on colorimetry by using a standard curve. The interaction efficiency was slightly larger for the synthetic macromolecules when compared to the natural one. Nevertheless, the tanning has lower cost and its use could be recommended.
Poly(acrylamide-co-acrylic acid); tannins; interaction; metal-polymer complexes; zinc
