Researchers at the University of Kentucky are pioneering eco-friendly methods to recover valuable metals from e-waste and industrial waste. With a $1-million grant from the US Department of Energy, the team, led by Jian Shi, is developing plant-based hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as a greener alternative to traditional metal extraction techniques. These solvents allow for selective recovery of lithium, cobalt, and nickel with higher purity, reducing contamination and improving efficiency.
“This isn’t just about improving recovery rates,” said Shi, the grant’s principal investigator. “It’s about building a system that values people, the planet, and the future of our industries.”
By incorporating molecular simulations and machine learning, the researchers optimize recovery rates while minimizing waste. DESs are biodegradable, less toxic, and operate under mild conditions, enhancing worker safety and reducing environmental impact. Additionally, novel membrane separation technologies enable the reuse of these solvents, decreasing waste and operational costs.
“We’ve worked on reclaiming minerals and metals from waste materials for decades—bringing together expertise from across UK’s campus to tackle this project,” Rick Honaker, professor of mining engineering, said. “Sustainability is a key piece of this work, and we look forward to the advances these plant-based solvents will offer.”
The project, in collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, also provides training opportunities for students and researchers. Ultimately, this initiative aims to create a sustainable and cost-effective approach to metal recovery, supporting industries like electric vehicle battery manufacturing while promoting a circular economy.