Layer-by-layer Nanofiltration Membranes for the Recovery of Rare Earth Elements

This project aims to develop and evaluate layer-by-layer nanofiltration (LbL-NF) membranes for the recovery of rare earth elements (REEs) from acidic solutions of secondary waste. The research will involve fabricating charged membrane layers on commercially available ultrafiltration supports and testing their ability to concentrate solutions of REEs while maintaining high permeability under acidic conditions. Building on membrane designs previously demonstrated by the host group for scandium recovery, the project will investigate whether similar membrane compositions can be extended to other rare earth elements. The collaboration will benefit the home institution by providing new insights into membrane technology for critical materials separation, while the host institution will expand their study of LbL membranes toward a variety of other REEs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Roland Roesler

Student:

Partner:

University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Clean Technology; Life Sciences (not health); Sustainability and the Environment

University:

University of Calgary

Program: