Sustainable Recovery of Critical Metals from End-of-Life Vehicles Using Porous Organic Sorbents

Purpose and goal

Critical metals, such as platinum group metals and rare-earth elements, are vital for electrified and low-emissions vehicles but are mainly sourced through mining, resulting in significant environmental and supply risks. This pre-study investigates multifunctional and cost-effective porous organic polymers as selective adsorbents for critical metal recovery from end-of-life vehicles (ELVs), evaluating their design, adsorption performance, and suitability for industrial ELV recycling streams.

Expected effects and result

The pre-study is expected to deliver proof-of-concept results from porous organic polymers used in selective recovery of critical metals from end-of-life secondary waste streams. It will generate key knowledge on structure-property relationships and validate their adsorption performance. In the long-term, the results will support more circular material flows in the automotive industry, reduce dependence on mining, and contribute to lower environmental impact and improved resource efficiency.

Planned approach and implementation

The pre-study will involve synthesis and characterization of functional porous organic polymers and evaluation of their adsorption properties for platinum group metals and rare-earth elements in simulated and real waste streams. The work will provide a scientific basis for further development, scale-up, and integration into real-life recycling streams. Collaboration with industrial partner ensures relevance and supports future implementation.