“How a cheap powder and salty water could revolutionize gold recovery from your old devices”
Facing this, Australian scientists propose an unexpected alternative: a sustainable technique that allows for the recovery of gold even from broken computers.
The alchemy of the future: gold without poison or mining
For decades, gold recovery has been associated with pollution from chemicals like cyanide. But a team of scientists, led by Dr. Smith, is determined to change that narrative. They have developed a polymer capable of efficiently and ecologically recovering gold from minerals and electronic waste, including circuit boards.
The most impressive aspect is that this polymer, made with light and sulfur, is not only reusable but also able to isolate gold even in highly contaminated mixtures. In essence, this represents a safer, more cost-effective, and scalable way to treat electronic waste and industrial materials.
The “magic solution” that could turn waste into treasures
When activated with saltwater, the polymer has the ability to dissolve gold present in electronic components. The gold is then captured by a special polymer that separates it from the rest of the metals, making it ready for recovery. This method not only avoids toxic substances but also drastically reduces hazardous waste, with the potential to be adapted for industrial operations. The team is already exploring how to scale it up, seeking investments to turn this “laboratory magic” into a commercial technology.
With an approach that combines low cost, recyclability, and environmental respect, this technique could be the answer to both the growing demand for gold and the global issue of electronic waste.
