The ION4RAW project proposes an energy, material, and cost-efficient new mineral processing technology to recover by-products from primary sources by means of innovative Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES) ionic liquids and advanced electrochemical methods as an only step. Joint recovery of by-products from primary sources that belong to the Cu-Ag-Au group is proposed. Most of the targeted by-products elements are Critical Raw Materials such as bismuth (Bi), germanium (Ge), indium (In), cobalt (Co), platinum (Pt) and antimony (Sb), a group of highly demanded materials that are crucial to Europe’s economy yet without reliable and unhindered access from the EU. Accompanying major product metals, e.g. copper (Cu), silver (Ag), and gold (Au), may also be recovered by this process. The flexibility of the process increases its market penetration potential as a sound systemic solution.

ION4RAW receives funding from the Horizon 2020 @EU_H2020 Research and Innovation programme (GA No 815748). All information in this community reflects the view of its authors only.