Metal recovery from industrial wastewaters by membrane electrolysis

Wastewaters and process waters are generated by a wide range of industrial activities, resulting in the presence of a variety of pollutants. The effective treatment for safe discharge of these waters into surface waters and sewers poses a challenge. Strict compliance with limits is not only desirable but also crucial to protect ecosystems and public health. Wastewater and process water treatment can also be used for metal recovery. However, the purity and form of the extracted metals must be suitable for the subsequent use. The project proposes the use of membrane electrolysis for selective metal recovery without the consumption of chemicals. The aim of the work is to find the optimal settings and limitations of the process in terms of variability of feedstock composition and desired properties of the output streams as well as selection of the appropriate water pretreatment or product processing. In addition to promoting raw material security and circular economy, the use of membrane electrolysis can lead to savings due to the possibility of product monetisation, reduction of landfill costs, or elimination or reduction of the consumption of chemicals.