Development of Bioleaching-based processes for the recovery of precious metals of processed waste from Superalloys

Overview:

In partnership with AAS, Coventry University are developing innovative and sustainable bioleaching-based processes to recover critical metals from superalloy by-products at AAS. The same team at Coventry University has already proven this technology successful for the recovery of metals with e-waste.

Objectives: 

AAS requires the support of this KTP to adopt this 'world-changing' technology being developed by Coventry University to implement sustainable processes within the metal industry for efficient recovery of rare precious metals. Due to the ever-increasing global demand for metals which become rarer, and the poor recycling and recovery of metals, the metal industry is crying out for the development of sustainable, novel, efficient and environmentally friendly processes for better recovery of metals as part of a circular economy.

Bioleaching, which uses microorganisms to solubilise metals, offers a proven, sustainable alternative to recover the metals without incineration. However, the required expertise in microbiology and electrochemistry is currently missing at AAS. The embedding of bioleaching technology into AAS facilities will provide a novel capability and a competitive advantage.

Impact Statement: 

Development of new knowledge with commercial awareness and the ethical and environmental implications associated with long-term applications.

Outputs: 

Conferences Presentation (stage 1) and Publications (stage 5-6) in high-quality peer-reviewed international journals such as Nature Climate, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, Energy technology and also more specific journals such as Metals, Advances in Recycling of Valuable Metals and Frontiers in Microbiology