Ionogels as modular platform for metal extraction

•Ionogels were synthesized by confining the commercial tetrahexylammonium bromide salt [THN][Br] in a silica matrix.•Anionic metathesis of the [THN][Br] ionogels by LiTFSI or NaDca leads to a full replacement of bromide ion by TFSI or Dca.•The [THN][Br] ionogels show high extraction capabilities towards halogenated Au(III) and Pt(IV) complexes as well as Cr(VI).•Treatment of [THN][Br] ionogels with LiTFSI allowed the separation of Au(III) from Pt(IV) and Cu(II).•Treatment of [THN][Br] ionogels with NaDca improved the extraction capabilities of the material for Co(II) in a saline environment.