Recovery and Refinement Techniques for Circularity of Platinum Group Metals

This chapter explores innovative recovery and refinement techniques aimed at enhancing the circularity of the platinum group metals (PGMs). The chapter begins by highlighting the importance and crucial roles that PGMs play across several sectors and the key challenges that face their supply chain. Next, it veers into circular economy (CE), explaining the principles with regards to PGM recovery and refinement, as well as the economic and environmental benefits. It further provides a comprehensive discussion of state-of-the-art technologies, including mechanical, pyrometallurgical, hydrometallurgical, and biohydrometallurgical processes, and emerging green technologies. The discussion entails extraction of PGMs from diverse sources, such as spent automotive catalysts, electrical and electronic wastes, and industrial by-products. Finally, cases of real-world applications highlighting successful implementations of these techniques by PGM refineries are presented. The integration of cutting-edge techniques, such as adsorption, ion exchange, membrane processes, sustainable solvent extraction, and molecular recognition technology into existing processes help to optimize the PGM recovery while minimizing environmental impact. By presenting a holistic perspective on recovery and refinement strategies, this chapter contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable resource management and the transition toward CE, emphasizing the pivotal role of PGMs in fostering technological innovation and environmental responsibility.