Magnetic nanohydrometallurgy: A promising nanotechnological approach for metal production and recovery using functionalized superparamagnetic nanoparticles

We report on a new, promising nanotechnological approach for hydrometallurgy based on recyclable, chemically functionalized superparamagnetic nanoparticles. In this process, the metal ions (e.g. Cu2+) are captured by the nanoparticles and confined at the electrode surface by means of an external magnet. Due to the pre-concentration effect the electrodeposition process is greatly improved, yielding the pure metal in a much shorter time in comparison with the conventional electrodeposition process. After the electrolysis, the magnetic nanoparticles are ready to return to the process. The proposed strategy can advantageously be incorporated in hydrometallurgy, reducing the number of steps associated with complexation, organic solvent extraction, metal release and diffusional electroprocessing, leading to a more sustainable technology.

Magnetic nanohydrometallurgy: a promising nanotechnological approach for metal production and recovery using functionalized superparamagnetic nanoparticlesFigure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► It is proposed a nanotechnological version for the hydrometallurgy process.
► The metal ions were captured by the functionalized superparamagnetic nanoparticles.
► Electrodeposition was directly performed from the magnetically confined particles.
► Great improvements resulted from the pre-concentration and recovery processes.