Samples of zirconium(IV)iodotungstate have been synthesized under varying mixing order and ratios of aqueous solution of potassium iodate, sodium tungstate and zirconium oxychloride at pH 1. A tentative formula was proposed on the basis of chemical composition, FTIR and thermogravimetric studies. The material shows a capacity of 0.68 meq g(-1) (for K+) which can be retained up to 200 degrees C. pH titration data reveal its monofunctional behavior. The distribution coefficient values of metal ions have been determined in various solvent systems. A number of important and analytically difficult quantitative separations of metal ions have been achieved using columns packed with this exchanger. In order to demonstrate practical utility of this material, Hg2+ and Pb2+ have been selectively separated and determined in the synthetic mixtures. Assay of Al3+ and Mg2+ in commercial tablets and analysis of lead in the standard reference material have also been attempted. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.