A hydrometallurgical approach to recover valuable metals from a Co-Bi-rich catalytic waste

Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf HZDR (Forschungsstelle Leipzig)

01328 Dresden

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Overview

A hydrometallurgical approach to recover valuable metals from a Co-Bi-rich catalytic waste Master theses
Cobalt (Co) and Molybdenum (Mo) are critical raw materials widely used across industry and predominantly obtained from primary ores.
The goal of the proposed master thesis is to develop a hydrometallurgical process for the recovery of valuable metals, especially Co and Mo from the Co-Bi-rich catalytic waste.

Investigate leaching, selective precipitation, solvent extraction, crystallization, and membrane technologies for metal recovery
Develop and optimize a selective supported liquid membrane (SLM) system for solvent extraction
Systematically compare solvent extraction and SLM-based separation in terms of selectivity and extraction efficiency

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related field
Knowledge of hydrometallurgical methods (leaching, precipitation, solvent extraction, crystallization, membrane technologies)
Knowledge of analytical techniques (ICP-OES, AAS, MS or similar) for metal concentration analysis
Good oral and written communication skills in English
Ability to work independently and systematically

Conduct literature research on the recovery of cobalt, molybdenum, and other metals through hydrometallurgical processes and membrane technologies
Characterization and understanding of the feed materials using XRD, FTIR, ICPOES, XRF, etc., before and after the experimental process
Optimize experimental conditions for high recovery efficiencies for cobalt and other valuable metals
Prepare a comprehensive thesis report and, if possible, present findings at relevant conferences or workshops
Duration: 6 months
Start Date: Start in October 2026 is possible
Funding: Remuneration according to HZDR internal regulations
Online application: Please apply online: English / German