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Gold and Copper Recovery Technology Extracts Precious Metals from E-Waste without Smelting or Toxic Chemicals

Reported byHappy Eco News ↗·Sourced by Goodlede

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University of Edinburgh chemists Jason Love and Carole Morrison have developed the Gold Copper Diamide Extraction process using reusable organic ligands to selectively extract precious metals from electronic waste at low temperatures. E-waste is projected to reach 93.5 million tonnes by 2030, with gold content in one tonne exceeding US$46,000 and copper adding roughly US$2,000, yet only 20% undergoes environmentally sound recycling. The new process eliminates the need for cyanide, mercury, and organic solvents while eliminating furnace smelting above 1,200°C.

Systemic / trendModerate✓ Verified

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