Objectives of advanced green technologies

Advanced green technologies (AGTs) refer to a group of practical methodologies and materials based, among others, on non-toxic chemical processes, clean energies, and environmental monitoring to slow down or correct the negative impact induced by human activities.

Where is copper mined and refined?

Taking a closer look at worldwide copper production statistics we found that some of the biggest copper-producing countries do not necessarily refine the copper at home. The reasons for this depend on various factors. We wanted to find out how much of copper is not actually refined in the same countries from which it was mined.

Lab tests such as this are an ideal way to demonstrate the recovery capabilities of emew for a variety of electrolytes and feed materials. In most cases, these tests can be done right at your site so you can see the results for yourself.

This particular test is to demonstrate the recovery of copper cathode from a copper sulphate feed solution.  We can test a range of feed materials to recover not only copper, but also silver, nickel, tin and others.  This copper sulphate solution was prepared ahead of time and roughly 3L transferred to the feed tank.

Nickel and Nickel Powders

Billions of litres of wastewater are treated every year in wastewater treatment plants around the world. This wastewater, both industrial and municipal, can contain various pollutants depending on the source. Wastewater may contain soap, waste products, food scraps, human waste, oils and in some cases, metals. The main goal of wastewater treatment is to preserve the environment and keep the pollutants out of rivers and oceans.

While silver is definitely a precious metal, the usages of this metal are much wider than just the jewelry industry. Silver is a great electro-conductor which makes it a beneficial metal in the manufacturing of electrical and electronic components. Silver is a cost-effective and high-performance metal for the electronics industry. For example, it can be used in copper or brass connectors in order to increase conductivity. In other cases, silver is used as an anti-tarnishing plating and can prevent scratches and retain the attractiveness of parts.

Electrowinning is a widely used technology in modern metal recovery, mining, refining, and wastewater treatment applications.  The electrowinning process is one of the oldest electrolytic processes known and was first introduced in 1807 by English chemist Humphry Davy. After 66 long years the first commercial refinery Balbach and Sons Refining and Smelting Company adopted the electrowinning technology and shortly after became the second largest metal processing company in the United States.