Lexmark International. has filed a patent for a method to recover copper and gold from electronic waste, specifically printed circuit boards. The process involves using a lixiviant solution containing a weak acid, oxidizer, and salt, resulting in fast and environmentally friendly recovery of metals. GlobalData’s report on Lexmark International gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Lexmark International, Automated personalized lookbooks was a key innovation area identified from patents. Lexmark International's grant share as of January 2024 was 62%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Recovering copper and gold from electronic waste using lixiviant solution
A recently filed patent (Publication Number: US20230416873A1) outlines a method for recovering copper and gold from electronic waste. The process involves preparing a lixiviant solution with a weak acid, an oxidizer, and a salt, with specific concentration ratios and pH levels. The solution is then used to soak electronic waste containing printed circuit boards, allowing for the recovery of copper salts and detached gold from the waste material.
The method detailed in the patent specifies the use of citric acid as the weak acid, table salt (NaCl) as the salt, and hydrogen peroxide as the oxidizer. The concentration of the salt in the lixiviant solution, as well as the ratio of weak acid to salt, are crucial parameters in the recovery process. Additionally, the pH of the solution, ranging from 0.6 to 2.2, plays a significant role in the effectiveness of the recovery process. The patent also suggests various methods for recovering the detached gold, such as electrowinning, precipitation, or solvent extraction, providing flexibility in the overall process. Furthermore, the speed of copper salt recovery can be enhanced by utilizing an electrical cell and applying a desired potential to the solution, showcasing innovative techniques for efficient recovery of valuable metals from electronic waste.
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