Selective Separation Methods and Extractions
The selective separation of valuable materials from material streams and the efficient treatment of aqueous waste streams are of central importance in many fields. In this context, we are developing innovative processes to sustainably extract (precious) metals such as gold, copper, or lithium from resources like electronic waste or black masses using deep eutectic solvents (DES) (Fei: Link to GREME or to a page briefly explaining the process; link to patent?) from resources such as electronic waste or black masses (maybe as an extra page showing some pictures.... Gold from...). In addition, we are working on the further development of forward-looking technologies such as Membrane Capacitive Deionization (MCDI) (here it could be a single page about MCDI and how it can be used to remove Li, PFAS, pharmaceuticals... depending on how much you want to share at the moment). This technology makes it possible to selectively concentrate and remove metals, pollutants such as PFAS or ionogenic pharmaceuticals, as well as nutrients such as phosphate (link to PERSEPHONE) from the aqueous phase. This not only enables effective water treatment but also facilitates the recovery and recycling of valuable resources. Our research actively contributes to promoting a sustainable circular economy and makes an important contribution to protecting the environment.