Using functionalized calix[4]arene carrier 1 in a PIM system, Hg(II) is transported with high selectivity from acidic aqueous source phase solutions of Cd(II), Hg(II) and Pb(II) with high NaNO3 concentration into aqueous receiving solutions containing EDTA. To gain insight into this transport selectivity, complexation studies of the three heavy metal perchlorate species by ligand 1 were conducted in acetonitrile. Although 1:1 complexation of the divalent heavy metal cation by 1 was observed for Cd(II), the stoichiometries were more complicated for Hg(II) and Pb(II). Selective Hg(II) transport across the PIM is attributed to both the strength and stoichiometry of the metal ion-carrier species forming at the source phase-membrane interphase and its stripping from the membrane into the receiving phase by EDTA. (c) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.