Wastewater as a source of valuable raw materials
Recovering metals from waste water and natural water bodies conserves resources
Wastewater contains metals that have often gone unused until now. Researchers aim to harness these raw materials, thereby contributing to the circular economy and a more independent supply of raw materials.
As part of the ‘LiquidMining’ project, researchers at the University of Augsburg are investigating how valuable metals can be extracted from industrial effluent and natural water sources. To this end, they are testing various separation processes, including sorption materials and membrane technologies. The aim is to develop suitable methods for different water compositions.
In addition to technical feasibility, the focus is on economic viability: recovery must be viable even under industrial conditions. To this end, the researchers intend to systematically assess the raw material potential of various water sources and identify suitable sites.
In the long term, the processes developed are to be demonstrated in a modular pilot plant. The project could help to keep valuable metals in the cycle and reduce dependence on primary raw material sources.
