Optimizing Critical Materials Recycling in the Electronics Industry: Efficient Extraction of Valuable Elements (REEs) from LED Leachated Solutions using Hydrometallurgical Techniques

• Grant number: 25/03772-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Denise Crocce Romano Espinosa
• Grantee: Verónica Cristina Arellano Ruiz
• Host Institution: Escola Politécnica (EP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 19/11866-5 - Development of innovative processes for the recovery of critical metals, AP.TEM

Abstract

The demand for rare earth elements (REEs) has surged significantly due to a major shift from carbon-based energy sources to renewable and clean energy. However, most REEs are considered high-risk in terms of supply due to their high demand, geopolitical challenges, limited sustainable sources, and complex processing requirements. This research project focuses on the development of a process aimed at recovering and potentially separating individual REEs. The case study is conducted using e-waste: used postconsumer light-emitting diode (LED) with the goal of extracting, separating, and recovering the REEs.Recent studies suggest the potential of using mixtures of organic extractants to enhance separation efficiency. Consequently, this research aims to investigate the formation of organometallic complexes. The initial focus will be on yttrium and gallium, given their significant applications in light-emitting diode (LED) technology. The organic extractants under investigation include Cyanex 572, Cyanex 272, PC99A, and D2EHPA. These extractants will be dissolved in kerosene and subsequently mixed with aqueous solutions containing the REEs. Following the reaction, the aqueous phase will be analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), while the organic phase will be examined via Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR). (AU)