Review
Metallurgy & Metallurgical Engineering
Yasmim Sagrillo Pimassoni, Maria Tereza Weitzel Dias Carneiro Lima, Luciana Harue Yamane, Renato Ribeiro Siman
Summary: Rare earth elements (REE) are critical metals with high supply risk and growing demand. Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is a potential secondary source for recovering REE, but there are challenges and gaps in the recovery process. Hydrometallurgical processes using sulfuric acid have been mainly studied, and sequential processes and recovery from different residues are lacking.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Laura Castro, Maria Luisa Blazquez, Felisa Gonzalez, Jesus angel Munoz
Summary: Biohydrometallurgy, a method of recovering metals through microbially mediated processes, has gained attention for extracting critical resources such as rare earth elements. The interest in rare earth elements is growing due to their applications in novel technologies and green economy, with biohydrometallurgy being used to extract resources from waste streams to support innovative mining and promote a circular economy.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Lavinia Tofan, Carmen-Nicoleta Bojoaga, Carmen Paduraru
Summary: This review highlights the potential of biosorbents in recycling rare earth elements and platinum group metals, as well as the challenges faced by current technologies. The discussion is divided into laboratory experiments and recycling strategies, exploring the adsorption performance of biosorbents under different conditions and their application in real samples.
ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Yao Chen, Qianyu Qiao, Jiazhen Cao, Hexing Li, Zhenfeng Bian
Summary: As non-renewable resources, the demand for precious metals (PMs) is increasing, leading to a growing focus on the recovery of secondary resources. However, the chemical stability of PMs makes recovery conditions harsher and poses serious safety concerns. This article discusses research progress on PM recovery strategies, challenges, and future prospects.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Srecko Stopic, Buse Polat, Hanwen Chung, Elif Emil-Kaya, Slavko Smiljanic, Sebahattin Gurmen, Bernd Friedrich
Summary: NdFeB magnets are widely used in various technological applications due to their remarkable magnetic properties. However, their limited recycling and China's monopoly on rare earth elements supply pose economic and environmental challenges. This paper proposes a pyrometallurgical recycling method for end-of-life NdFeB magnets by oxidizing them in air. The experimental results show that the material is completely oxidized at 1100 degrees C, resulting in the formation of various metal oxides.
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Nikhil Dhawan, Himanshu Tanvar
Summary: The article provides a critical analysis of different recycling processes for waste fluorescent lamps (FLs) and highlights the market value potential for recycling and recovering rare earth elements. The research emphasizes the importance of phosphor recycling from FLs due to limited primary resources and strict environmental norms. Advanced processing techniques such as microwave processing and mechanical activation can significantly increase the recovery rate of rare earth compounds from phosphor waste.
SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Yingbo Dong, Nuo Mingtana, Jinyu Zan, Hai Lin
Summary: This review focuses on bioleaching as an environmentally friendly method for extracting precious metals from waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs). The paper provides an overview of the current status of bioleaching for precious metals from WPCBs, describes the underlying mechanisms, and outlines the influence of various process factors on leaching efficiency. The review underscores the considerable potential of bioleaching in WPCBs applications, but also describes the limitations and current enhanced processes for improving leaching efficiency.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Quanhui Ye, Xiuyu Jin, Baotong Zhu, Haifeng Gao, Na Wei
Summary: In this study, a new biosorbent (MNPLanM) was developed by immobilizing Lanmodulin-SpyCatcher on the surface of SpyTag-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for selective separation and recovery of rare earth elements (REEs) from waste streams. The biosorbent exhibited high adsorption activity and fast kinetics, and the adsorbed REEs could be efficiently desorbed. MNPLanM selectively adsorbed REEs in the presence of non-REEs and showed high stability after multiple adsorption-desorption cycles. Furthermore, MNPLanM effectively concentrated REEs from low-grade feedstocks, achieving a significant increase in REE purity.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Jayesh Shanthi Bhavan, Jubin Joy, Ashwath Pazhani
Summary: The sustained growth of the electronic and electrical industries emphasizes the importance of efficient energy utilization and recycling of electronic waste. This study aims to identify and explore the recycling possibilities of rare earth materials in electronic waste through material characterization techniques.
MATERIALS TODAY COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Anitha Kunhikrishnan, Md. Aminur Rahman, Dane Lamb, Nanthi S. Bolan, Surinder Saggar, Aravind Surapaneni, Chengrong Chen
Summary: There is little doubt that rock phosphate reserves are decreasing, with phosphorus peak to be reached in the coming decades. Recovery of phosphorus from alternative nutrient-rich waste streams using adsorption technique is critical and gaining attention, particularly with the use of rare earth elements. Research is needed to further explore the potential of REE-sorbents in recovering phosphorus and their practical application in agriculture.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Dominik Boehm, Konrad Czerski, Stephan Gottlieb, Armin Huke, Goetz Ruprecht
Summary: This article presents a sustainable separation concept for large-scale recycling of NdFeB magnets. It combines two separation concepts from the literature: selective pre-separation by in situ chlorination and evaporation, and subsequent distillation for high-purity recovery of recyclable material components, including Rare Earth Elements (REEs).
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Zhang Zhihan, Wang Zhi, Wang Dong, Lin Yong, Xiao Wanhai, Liu Chenghao, Liuyimei Yang, Wu Jian, Li Guobiao
Summary: Rare earth elements (REEs) are crucial for industrial development, and it is important to recycle them from waste containing REEs; however, challenges of high acid consumption and heavy pollution still persist. This study found that the insoluble phase of NdFeO3 significantly inhibited the leaching efficiency of REEs in roasted NdFeB waste. Mechanical activation was an effective method to destroy the structure of the insoluble NdFeO3 phase and increase the leaching efficiency of REEs. This work provides a green strategy and theoretical basis for efficiently recovering REEs from NdFeB waste.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Pan Liu, Simin Zhao, Nan Xie, Lufeng Yang, Qian Wang, Yinghao Wen, Hailong Chen, Yuanzhi Tang
Summary: Due to the demand for rare earth elements (REEs) and the vulnerability of supply, there is increasing interest in recovering REEs from waste streams such as coal fly ash (CFA). This study demonstrates a green system for REE recovery from CFA, which addresses both REE scarcity and CFA management challenges.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Patricia Wamea, Mica L. Pitcher, Joy Muthami, Amir Sheikhi
Summary: Rare earth elements are critical in advanced industries, but the world is facing shortages and challenges in sustainable removal. The development of AHNC, a bio-based technology, shows promising results in high-capacity and selective removal of Nd3+ from aqueous media.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Ying Cao, Penghui Shao, Yidi Chen, Xiaoyu Zhou, Liming Yang, Hui Shi, Kai Yu, Xianxin Luo, Xubiao Luo
Summary: Rare earth elements (REEs) have become important strategic resources in the 21st century due to global supply crises caused by increasing demand in the high-tech industry. Algae-based technology is considered a promising method for recovering REEs, offering high efficiency, low cost, and wide applicability. Future studies are suggested to further develop algae-based REEs recovery technology and make it commercially viable.
RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING
(2021)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Klicia A. Sampaio, Nadezhda Zyaykina, Bogumila Wozniak, Junko Tsukamoto, Wim De Greyt, Christian V. Stevens
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF LIPID SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2015)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Vera Van Hoed, Nadezhda Zyaykina, Wim De Greyt, Jeroen Maes, Roland Verhe, Kristof Demeestere
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN OIL CHEMISTS SOCIETY
(2008)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xianzhen Li, Kyungyeon Ra, Md Nuruddin, Seyedeh Mahboobeh Teimouri Sendesi, John A. Howarter, Jeffrey P. Youngblood, Nadya Zyaykina, Chad T. Jafvert, Andrew J. Whelton
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2019)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Kyungyeon Ra, Seyedeh Mahboobeh Teimouri Sendesi, Md. Nuruddin, Nadezhda N. Zyaykina, Emily N. Conkling, Brandon E. Boor, Chad T. Jafvert, John A. Howarter, Jeffrey P. Youngblood, Andrew J. Whelton
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2019)
Article
Food Science & Technology
K. A. Sampaio, N. Zyaykina, E. Uitterhaegen, W. De Greyt, R. Verhe, A. J. de Almeida Meirelles, C. V. Stevens
LWT-FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2019)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Yi Ji, Chad T. Jafvert, Nadezhda N. Zyaykina, Fu Zhao
Summary: The increasing demand for electric vehicles and the rapid consumption of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries call for the recycling of spent cathode active materials (CAMs) to reduce hazardous wastes and provide raw materials for battery production. Traditional methods such as direct calcination of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) binder have drawbacks of high energy consumption and toxic gas release. This study explores an environmentally friendly and effective alternative using different lithium salts, and achieves high peel-off efficiency with LiOAc and LiNO3. The mechanism of PVDF decomposition is proposed.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiaojian Liu, Bei Wang, Yayun Ma, Xiangyang Zhou, Juan Yang, Yuehui He, Jingjing Tang, Fanyun Su, Wan Yang
Summary: This study proposes a combined process of reduction roasting of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid leaching to improve the recovery efficiency of lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries. By utilizing the reducing gas produced from the pyrolysis of herb-medicine residue, the layered structure of the cathode powder is destroyed and converted into Li2CO3, Ni, Co, and MnO. Additionally, selective extraction of lithium is achieved using oxalic acid, and the efficiency and kinetics of lithium extraction are improved under the combined action of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Muxina Konarova, Nuno Batalha, Gabriel Fraga, Mohamed H. M. Ahmed, Steven Pratt, Bronwyn Laycock
Summary: This study presents a proof of concept for a technology that integrates PET recovery from mixed plastic waste and plastic pyrolysis. By depolymerizing PET into TPA using a low volatility oil as medium, it achieves low-pressure operation and a selective separation and recovery of TPA from the product mix. Full PET conversion and high TPA recovery were achieved, making it an effective solution for processing mixed waste streams and improving the yield and quality of liquid product from thermal pyrolysis compared to untreated feedstock.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Zhenhua Sun, Jing Li, Xuejiang Wang, Siqing Xia, Jianfu Zhao
Summary: This study investigated the influence of in-situ formed MgFe2O4 on the hydrothermal treatment of swine manure. The results showed that the in-situ formation of MgFe2O4 improved the dehydration and decarboxylation of organic components in swine manure, thereby improving its carbonization degree. Furthermore, it enhanced the stabilization of heavy metals and the retention of phosphorus. MgFe2O4 modified hydrochars exhibited remarkable adsorption capacity for Pb(II) and Cu(II) without any leaching of heavy metals.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yijing Jiang, Boyang Leng, Jingxin Xi
Summary: The increased generation of municipal solid waste has had a significant impact on the economy, environment, and public health. The current waste treatment process has limitations. By developing a comprehensive social costing model, this study assesses the impacts of municipal solid waste management throughout its life cycle and provides policymakers with best practices and feasibility information.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Marina Hernandes de Paula e Silva, Ricardo Coser Mergulha, Jose Geraldo Vidal Vieira, Andrea Brasco Pampanelli, Rodrigo Salvador, Diogo Aparecido Lopes Silva
Summary: This study developed and implemented a self-assessment tool to assist companies in decision-making processes for establishing circular flows based on Lean Manufacturing and Circular Economy principles. The tool utilized a maturity model and was applied to nine companies of varying characteristics. The findings revealed that certain companies showed higher maturity in water-waste and chemical-emissions management, with larger enterprises focusing on these strategies. However, many companies lacked sufficient training and employee awareness prior to seeking cleaner alternatives, and comprehensive actions to manage the product lifecycle were lacking. To address these gaps, the tool provided tailored recommendations for each company to improve their processes, products, and value chain.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Gamze Dogdu, Turgay Pekdemir, Sanaz Lakestani, Seyda Karabork, Osman Cavus
Summary: This paper presents data on food waste associated with mini size food packaging services, highlighting the difficulties in emptying the food and consumer wastefulness as the main causes. These findings have significant implications for the sustainability of food and relevant packaging.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Qingxia Li, Xin Kong, Yuxin Chen, Jianan Niu, Jia Jing, Jin Yuan, Yifeng Zhang
Summary: This study investigates how to enhance methane production from food waste after hydrothermal pretreatment. The results demonstrate a significant increase in methane yield when zero-valent iron and magnetite are used together, and high organic loading is favorable for methane production. Microbial diversity analysis further reveals the dominant pathways and metabolic processes involved in methane generation.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
D. H. H. Sim, I. A. W. Tan, L. L. P. Lim, E. T. Lau, B. H. Hameed
Summary: The development of controlled-release fertilizer formulation is important for preventing environmental pollution caused by nutrient leaching and volatilization. This study combined biochar-based fertilizer with encapsulation technology to improve the nutrient release mechanism. Optimal conditions for synthesizing urea-impregnated biochar (UIB) were determined using central composite design, and the release of nitrogen was described by mathematical models. Results showed that encapsulated UIB (EUIB) achieved complete release of nitrogen in water and exhibited improved water retention in sandy-textural soil. Therefore, EUIB derived from peppercorn waste has the potential to be used as a sustainable controlled-release fertilizer for agriculture.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yuchuan Wang, Neslihan Akdeniz
Summary: Incorporating biochar into composting systems can increase compost temperatures. This study developed a heat transfer model for a biochar-amended co-composting system and found that biochar increased thermal conductive losses but also enhanced microbial activity, resulting in an overall increase in total heat unit. When biochar was applied on the surface, it mainly functioned as an insulator.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
George Tsalis, Birger Boutrup Jensen, Jessica Aschemann-Witzel
Summary: This paper empirically explores the relationship between retail price promotions and household food waste. The results show that households with a higher proportion of discount food purchases and environmental awareness tend to waste less food, while larger households and those lacking food handling skills tend to waste more food.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Lukas Friederici, Arne Koch, Patrick Martens, Jana Pantzke, Sebastiano Di Bucchianico, Thorsten Streibel, Christopher P. Rueger, Ralf Zimmermann
Summary: The increasing demand for lightweight materials has led to a rise in fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) production. However, the properties and compositional range of FRPs pose challenges to recycling strategies. Pyrolysis has emerged as a promising method for separating the fibers from the polymer matrix. This study investigated the pyrolysis process using thermal analysis and high-resolution mass spectrometry, and also assessed the toxicity of the recovered fibers using an in vitro model.
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Devika Kannan, Shakiba Khademolqorani, Nassibeh Janatyan, Somaieh Alavi
Summary: This paper introduces Smart Waste Management (SWM) that applies Industry 4.0 technologies in waste management. A framework called SWM4.0 is developed, which highlights the importance of smart people, smart cities, smart enterprises, and smart factories in achieving successful waste management. The paper also suggests future research directions and managerial implications.