Researchers extract gold from e-waste using a cheese byproduct
Scientists at public research university ETH Zürich have developed an environmentally sustainable method to extract gold from electronic waste using a byproduct of the cheesemaking process. Whey proteins are used to create a sponge that efficiently pulls gold from old computer motherboards dissolved in acid. The sponge has a unique structure that allows it to better stick to gold ions than other metals. After absorbing the gold, it is melted to form a nugget. The process aligns with circular economy principles by recycling both electronic and food waste. Read more about using cheese byproducts for extract gold from e-waste.
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