Method for extraction of bismuth and antimony, and removal of arsenic from industrial residue

The aim is to develop efficient methods for extracting copper, bismuth and antimony, and removing arsenic in a stable phase rendered harmless for the environment.

This harmonises with the sustainable development goals of UN that state need for high resource efficiency, sustainable material use and elimination of environmental impact from toxic substances.

European production of bismuth and antimony needed in electronics for electrification of transports and in the renewable energy sector, is lacking.Bismuth, antimony and arsenic accumulates when recycling residues at base metal industry, and continued recycling for high copper recovery becomes difficult.

New methods are needed to extract bismuth and antimony, and simultaneously remove arsenic.

The project aims such new methods, which will enable the use of plastics, presently not recycled due to contents of bismuth and antimony, as reducing agent.

The concentrations of these elements will increase in the residue, this is an economic advantage.Residues are characterized and possible chemical systems thermodynamically evaluated before conducting leaching and separation tests in lab.

Industrial concept or part of it is validated in lab and possibly on pilot or industrial scale at the industrial partner.Researcher in the project has expertise in the metallurgy of base metals, access to equipment and established collaboration with academia, institute and industry, which give prerequisites to reach aimed new knowledge and methods.