Rapid extraction of europium from spent fluorescent lamps
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a nature-inspired method to recover europium from old fluorescent lamps efficiently. The breakthrough enhances rare earth metal recycling, crucial for digitalization and energy transition, with plans to expand to other metals and establish a start-up.
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Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a nature-inspired process to efficiently recover europium, a rare earth metal, from old fluorescent lamps. This breakthrough could pave the way for improved recycling of rare earth metals crucial for digitalization and the energy transition. The new method involves using a small molecule to separate rare earth metals, with initial tests showing significantly higher europium extraction rates compared to existing techniques. The team is now working on expanding the approach to other rare earth metals and plans to establish a start-up to implement the recycling process. By focusing on recycling raw materials, the researchers aim to address the environmental and economic challenges associated with traditional extraction methods. This innovative approach not only offers a more sustainable way to recover rare earth metals but also reduces Europe's dependence on imports from China.
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