Platinum group metals feature on the list of the 14 materials the European Union and others have identified as critical to strategic energy technologies.  Primary refining of platinum group metals, the separation of which could be as little as 45 mg of metal from 4 kg of ore, is increasingly being supplemented by secondary refining, in which the platinum group metals are recycled from sources as diverse as jewellery, electronics, catalysts and glasses.  The refining industries have a responsibility to ensure the supply of these critical metals while at the same time ensuring zero harm operation, and minimising waste generation and energy use.  This talk discusses the position of platinum group metals in world markets and the technical challenges that need to be overcome by industry and academia to make it possible to continue to supply these metals sustainably.

Platinum group metal recycling: A business or a responsibility?

248th National Meeting (2014)

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