Metals Separation

Separating metals from complex mixtures, whether in the context of recycling, mining, or waste management, presents a myriad of challenges. One major issue is the diversity of metals involved, each with its unique physical and chemical properties, making it difficult to devise a universal separation technique. Furthermore, the growing demand for rare and precious metals has increased the complexity of the separation process, often requiring more sophisticated and environmentally friendly methods. Environmental concerns pose another challenge, as traditional separation techniques can generate hazardous byproducts and consume significant energy. Developing sustainable and efficient separation processes while minimizing waste and environmental impact is a pressing challenge. Additionally, the need to recover and recycle metals from electronic waste and other sources highlights the importance of improving existing separation technologies and developing innovative, cost-effective solutions for the future.

Problems of interest

• Multiscale modeling of separation processes
• Solvent and ligand design
• Reaction kinetics and mechanisms
• Metal speciation and complexation
• Electro/ photochemical separation of metals