The use of polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) for selective and efficient transport of metal ions is increasingly retaining attention. We then prepared and characterized cellulose triacetate membranes doped with calix[4]resorcinarenes derivatives as fixed carriers and containing 2-nitrophenyl octanoate (2-NPOT) as a new synthetic plasticizer. We applied them for the investigation of facilitated transport of Zn(II), Cd(II), and Pb(II) ions from aqueous nitrate source phase (c(Me) = 0.01 M, pH 5.5). Influence of several parameters on metal ions transport were analyzed such as the pH of the receiving phase. the alkyl moieties of calix[4]resorcinarenes and the carrier content of the PIM. We specifically focused on the influence of the chemical nature of the plasticizer, 2-nitrophenyl octyl ether (2-NPOE) versus 2-NPOT, on metal ions transport as well as on long term stability and durability of the PIM membrane. We found that the facilitated transport of metal ions through our PIM proceeds through a carrier-mediated diffusion mechanism and relies on a pH-dependent driving force. Moreover, we revealed that NPOT containing PIM exhibited a significantly higher selectivity towards Pb(II) as well as a better membrane stability. These results may open news avenues in lead removal from waste waters. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.