A novel strategy for selective separation of Cu from Ni in ammoniacal media by SLM. M5640 and TRPO exhibit antagonistic effects in SLM on transport of Cu and Ni. Efficient separation of Cu and Ni based on different antagonistic effect on metals. Over 98.4% of Cu and less than 6.1% of Ni were transported in 12 h. Satisfactory stability of Cu transport is achieved for 7 days of operation.