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AF aerogel

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Route of extraction and production of the AF aerogel.

An AF aerogel is an aerogel that uses amyloid fibrils derived from whey, as an adsorbent for gold recovery from e-waste. A study has demonstrated that AF aerogels have a high capacity for gold adsorption. Their use would have a less environmental impact than that of the conventional use of activated carbon as adsorbent.[1]

Process

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Crystal formation from gold nanoparticles

Nanofibrils of protein amyloid derived from whey is a novel (as of 2023) adsorbent for the extraction of gold from electronic waste. Prepared AF aerogels have a very high capacity for the adsorption of gold. [1]

The process begins with the separation of amyloid fibrils from waste dairy products, and their incorporation into an aerogel. The AF aerogel is then used in a solvent of dissolved computer motherboards (the main printed circuit board in a computer) to extract the gold contained. Af aerogels can convert gold (Au) ions into single crystalline flakes. The result is a yield of high purity gold nuggets, equating to around 21-22 carats, with only trace amounts of other metals present.[1]

Economics

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The use of AF aerogels has a profitable profile. It costs just over one dollar to retrieve one gram of gold, and the market value of a gram of gold (as of 2023) is around 50 dollars.[1]

Environment

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The use of AF aerogels compares favourably in terms of environmental impact in comparison to the conventional use of activated carbon adsorbents.[1]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d e Peydayesh, M; Boschi, E; Donat, F; Mezzenga, R (May 2024). "Gold Recovery from E-Waste by Food-Waste Amyloid Aerogels". Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.). 36 (19): e2310642. doi:10.1002/adma.202310642. hdl:20.500.11850/658267. PMID 38262611.