copper extraction methods” width=”1200″ height=”800″/>Innovative copper extraction methods.
Advancements in Sustainable Copper Recycling
Bioscope Technologies has achieved a significant milestone in the sustainable management of strategic metals, revealing the successful operation of a cutting-edge secondary copper electrowinning facility at its bio-refinery located in Cambridge. This establishment is noteworthy as it marks the first operational site of its kind in the UK since the closure of the IMI James Bridge copper refinery facility back in 1999.
State-of-the-Art Technology Implementation
The newly implemented system has been meticulously designed and constructed through collaboration with leading electrowinning expert emew Clean Technologies. It specializes in recovering 99.995% pure cathode grade copper from printed circuit boards (PCBs) by utilizing leachate from Bioscope’s innovative bio-process. Unlike conventional open tank electrolytic processes, this method employs closed-loop systems that significantly reduce environmental harm associated with traditional copper extraction methods, effectively eliminating any emissions that would ordinarily require collection.
Meeting Industry Demands for Critical Minerals
“Copper constitutes approximately 25% to 40% of the metallic content found within an average PCB,” explained Jeff Borrman, CEO of Bioscope Technologies. “This positions us well to meet increasing industrial demands for this crucial mineral—demands heightened by growing needs surrounding electric vehicles, renewable energy sources, and data center infrastructure.” The company aims to initiate production at approximately 200 metric tons (MT) annually and plans to ramp up output tenfold shortly thereafter.
High-grade Copper Production
Pursuing Circular Economy Solutions
Borrman further emphasized: “Our substantial investment into this advanced copper production facility encapsulates our circular economy strategy aimed at mitigating extensive losses resulting from PCB materials being transported overseas by reprocessing them sustainably before reinjecting them into UK industries.”
A Broad Approach to Metal Recovery
Bioscope’s pioneering bacteria-driven bioleaching and refining techniques are directed toward extracting various precious metals such as gold, silver, palladium, along with copper from PCBs. This initiative presents an environmentally-friendly alternative for UK firms seeking solutions instead of relying on overseas refiners located across Europe, Japan, and the USA.
Tackling E-Waste Challenges Together
Kamlesh Melana, VP Sales at emew Clean Technologies stated: “It is gratifying to witness the inaugural high-grade copper yield coming out from this plant after collaborating closely with Bioscope over two and a half years. Partnering with innovative companies like Bioscope allows us to tackle part of the escalating e-waste crisis facing our environment today. Contributing towards minimizing gaps in circularity for crucial metals like copper—integral to sustainability practices—is particularly rewarding.”
