Report on an interesting BRINE-RIS webinar

The BRINE-RIS is an international project, with the participation of the University of Miskolc. On March 21, 2024, Ghent University, in collaboration with its partners, organized a webinar titled "Electrochemical Methods for Metal Recovery". The webinar aimed to provide insights into the application of electrochemistry in the recovery of metals, with a focus on innovative methods and industrial uses.

Overview of Topics

The webinar held from 14:00 to 16:43 and consisted of four presentations covering various aspects of electrochemical methods for metal recovery:

1. Introduction to Electrochemistry (14:00–15:02):

Dr. Ir. Luiza Bonin from Ghent University commenced the webinar with an introductory presentation on electrochemistry. Her session provided the participants with a foundational understanding of electrochemical principles, setting the stage for subsequent discussions.

2. Selective Capacitive Deionization (CDI) (15:02–15:28):

Ir. Adrian Delgado Bejar presented on Selective Capacitive Deionization (CDI), an innovative method for metal recovery. He discussed the origins, key factors, and development of CDI, shedding light on its potential in the realm of metal recovery. This presentation was followed by a 10mins break.

3. Membrane Electrolysis for Lithium Extraction (15:40–16:05):

Ir. Guillaume Henderson elaborated on the use of Membrane Electrolysis for lithium extraction. He outlined various sources of lithium and explained the process of lithium conversion, emphasizing membrane electrolysis as a viable method. Additionally, he highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of this approach.

4. Industrial Uses of Electrochemistry for Metal Recovery (16:08–16:43):

Wouter Schutyser from UmiCore Research and Development concluded the webinar with a presentation on industrial applications of electrochemistry for metal recovery. He provided insights into UmiCore's activities in battery materials, catalysts, and recycling. Delved into electrochemistry, chloralkali, electrolytic hydrogen production and elaborated on how electrochemistry can be leveraged for metal recovery in industrial settings.

Take Home Messages:

• Electrochemistry plays a crucial role in metal recovery processes, offering innovative solutions and industrial applications.
• Selective Capacitive Deionization (CDI) and Membrane Electrolysis are promising methods for efficient metal recovery.
• Membrane Electrolysis offers advantages such as reduced energy consumption but also faces challenges such as high maintenance costs and purity issues.
• Industrial sectors, including battery materials and recycling, can benefit significantly from electrochemical approaches to metal recovery.

Conclusion:

The webinar provided valuable insights into the application of electrochemical methods for metal recovery, showcasing both innovative techniques and industrial applications. By bringing together experts from academia and industry, Ghent University and its partners facilitated knowledge exchange and highlighted the potential of electrochemistry in addressing challenges related to metal recovery.

written by: Abdussalam Muhammad Auwal

student of University of Miskolc (MSc Hydrogeology); member of TEKH Vocational College