Revolutionary polymer recovers precious metals from solutions!

Revolutionary polymer recovers precious metals from solutions!

Researchers at Ulm University have developed a novel polymer that could revolutionize the recovery of precious metals from solutions. This innovative material is able to efficiently extract gold and palladium. The high sulfur content of around 50 percent and the sponge-like structure of the polymer play a crucial role in its performance spectrum. The polymer was developed as part of the POLiS (Post Lithium Storage) Cluster of Excellence and the results of this research found their place in the specialist journalApplied Chemistry Novit, How uni-ulm.de reported.

The novel thioorthoester chemistry approach, which has remained unused in polymer chemistry, gives the material extraordinary properties. The structure ensures high stability and water insolubility, while the highly fissured surface significantly improves the binding capacity. The polymer can bind palladium with a maximum binding capacity of 41.2 mg/g, which is almost twice as much as existing scavengers. Also notable is the polymer's ability to remove toxic metalloids such as antimony from waste incineration plant slag, with a capture capacity of up to 2.23 mg/g.

Sustainability and industrial application

Another advantage of the polymer is the ability to release up to 83 percent of the bound substances from the material. This could significantly expand its possible uses in industry. Outside of precious metal recovery, the polymer has also been tested as a metal-free cathode in lithium-ion batteries. Here it demonstrated a stable capacity of around 100 mAh/g over 1000 charge and discharge cycles, without the use of critical metals, which results in a lower environmental impact. The material has been registered for patent and discussions with potential industrial partners for further development are planned to advance its application in practice.

Research on thioesters shows that these compounds are unique and widespread in nature. In recent years, interest in thioester-functionalized materials has increased as they find application in responsive polymers, bioconjugates, and degradable polymers. Beyond the synthesis and polymerization of thioester-containing monomers, new possibilities in polymer chemistry are emerging, such as the use of thiols, azides and other compounds to create tailor-made materials pubs.rsc.org.

Efficient recycling of lithium

In the same breath as developments in the field of polymer research, advances in battery recycling technology are also important. A new recycling process was developed at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) that makes it possible to recover up to 70 percent lithium from battery waste. This method combines mechanical processes with chemical reactions and does not require high temperatures or aggressive chemicals. The process was developed in collaboration with EnBW Energie Baden-Württemberg AG, with the aim of achieving cost-effective, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly recycling of lithium-ion batteries.

Currently, mainly nickel, cobalt, copper, aluminum and steel are recovered from battery waste, while the recovery of lithium is considered expensive and not very profitable. The new mechanochemical approaches used in recycling promise higher yields with less effort, increasing not only the efficiency but also the sustainability of the recycling process. The process could be used on an industrial scale in the near future, as large quantities of batteries are required for recycling due to advancing electromobility kit.edu reported.