Protein-based and selective extraction of Rare Earth Elements in water- and process streams (Zymatic REE)
Purpose and goals
Rare earth elements (REEs), such as neodymium and terbium, are metals of global importance. They power magnets in wind turbines and electric vehicles and can be used as catalysts in industrial processes. Demand for REEs has surged due to the global green transition and electrification. Current extraction methods are often costly, energy-intensive, and environmentally harmful. There is an urgent need for cleaner, more selective, and sustainable solutions for recovering REEs from aquatic environments.
Expected effects and result
This project combines protein engineering with advanced materials technology. The core idea is to design and optimize proteins to recognize and bind REEs with very high selectivity.
Planned approach and implementation
The project will follow a structured approach, progressing from laboratory development of proteins, through immobilization and validation, to demonstration in customer-relevant water streams such as synthetic water, mine water, and other industrial wastewater/effluent streams.
This English version is an AI-assisted translation prepared for the Swedish Metals & Minerals website. It has not been reviewed or approved by the project team or the funding agency.