Developing a treatment process for metal-containing waste streams using aqueous ionic liquids

The recovery of metals in waste streams has been identified as a critical area of importance for addressing increasing water scarcity and promoting a circular economy. Aqueous ionic liquids (ILs) offer a promising alternative to toxic traditional solvents for extracting valuable metals from wastewater. Whilst ILs are often noted for their green credentials, a deeper understanding of their interactions with metals is essential for optimising their application in metal extraction processes. Previous NEXAFS studies have focused on demonstrating the of bonding structures of ILs in aqueous solution, as well as exploring IL-metal interactions through the addition of metal salts. In the lab, we have considered two extensions to this work. Firstly, the use of pure metals, in the form of wire or foil. Secondly, the use of alloys. As such, this proposal builds on the previously reported work to develop a methodology and successfully study waste metal extraction in aqueous solutions of ILs.