RAPID

This project addresses the demonstration of a low-cost and low-energy pathway for the separation of metals from mixed scrap based on ionic liquids. The goal of the project is to develop and demonstrate a novel electrochemical process for the separation of metals from mixed scrap using ionic liquids (ILs) at low temperatures. For example, conventional separation of aluminum involves scrap melting at 800 °C resulting in high losses in metal values, high energy consumption and the generation of greenhouse gases including CO2 and fluorides that require post-combustion and flue gas cleaning processes. In the proposed electrochemical separation process, the separation will be carried out at low temperatures (<120°C), high metal recovery (>99%), low energy consumption, and no greenhouse gases generation. The electrolyte and residue of the process are recycled. This project will take the technology from bench to pilot scale.