Every year, around 50 million tonnes of electronic waste (e-waste) is produced globally, of which only 20% is recycled. Faced with this growing problem, a research team led by Cornell University is proposing an innovative approach: extracting gold from e-waste to reuse it as a catalyst in processes for converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into organic materials.
A sustainable solution for a double environmental problem
E-waste represents an underexploited resource. They contain on average ten times more gold per tonne than the ore extracted from the mines. However, traditional gold recovery methods use chemicals like cyanide, which are harmful to the environment.
For Amin Zadehnazari, postdoctoral researcher in the laboratory of Professor Alireza Abbaspourrad, it was imperative to develop a more environmentally friendly method. Using vinyl-bonded covalent organic frameworks (VCOFs), his team developed a system capable of capturing 99,9 % de l’or contained in the printed circuits of obsolete electronic devices, while limiting the extraction of other metals such as nickel or copper.
Technological innovation at the heart of recycling
VCOFs act by chemical adsorption, a process where particles adhere to a surface. This approach does not require any hazardous chemicals, representing a major advancement in the field of precious metal recycling. Once loaded with gold, VCOF is reused to transform carbon dioxide into useful organic materials.
Zadehnazari explains: “By transforming CO2 into high value-added materials, we not only reduce waste, but we also provide environmental and practical benefits. This is a doubly advantageous solution. »
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Valorization of CO2: a lever against greenhouse gases
CO2, the main cause of global warming, can be converted into organic compounds using catalysts loaded with gold. These compounds, such as carboxylated alkynes, are used in various industrial sectors, including fine chemicals. This valorization offers an interesting perspective for reducing the environmental impact of CO2 emissions while meeting the needs of industries.
A scientific publication to support the ecological transition
This work, published in Nature Communications under the title Recycling E-waste Into Gold-loaded Covalent Organic Framework Catalysts for Terminal Alkyne Carboxylationhighlight the importance of rethinking the use of resources from electronic waste. With a global production of 80 million tonnes of e-waste expected by 2030it is becoming urgent to exploit their potential beyond simple recycling.
Cutting-edge infrastructures at the service of research
This technological advancement was made possible thanks to Cornell Materials Research Center and at the university's Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) facilities, both funded by the National Science Foundation. These infrastructures allow precise and in-depth analyzes of the properties of the materials developed.
Towards an innovative economic and ecological model
The approach developed by the Cornell team offers an alternative to the classic paradigm of e-waste management. By combining gold recovery with productive use to reduce CO2, this process could become a centerpiece in ecological transition strategies.
The application prospects go well beyond laboratories. With the support of public policies and industrial investments, this innovation could transform a major environmental problem into an opportunity for the chemical and technological industries.
Article source: https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2025/01/e-waste-gold-pathway-co2-sustainability
