Recovery of Critical Raw Materials CRMs
Advanced CRM recycling: efficiency, purity and scalability.
At AIMPLAS we work with a clear objective: to help companies unlock the residual value in their waste by recovering strategic metals such as copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co) and rare earth elements (REEs) through sustainable, applied technologies.
These elements, designated as CRMs by the European Union, are essential for key sectors including batteries, electronics, renewable energy and transport. At the same time, their availability is exposed to geopolitical tensions, supply risks and, in many cases, a high dependence on non-EU countries.
Our proposal: close the loop, open new opportunities
AIMPLAS provides technology solutions tailored to each type of industrial waste—from slags and mine tailings to battery black mass and complex residues from the electronics industry. We partner with companies that want to go beyond compliance and turn their waste into real business opportunities.
We work with proven and continuously evolving techniques such as:
- Selective leaching using organic or inorganic acids.
- Electrodeposition to obtain metals with a high degree of purity.
- Controlled precipitation to separate metals based on pH and redox conditions.
- Membrane technologies and ion-exchange resins that enable efficient, sustainable and scalable separations.
We have hands-on experience in both laboratory and pilot plant settings, and we are actively involved in national and international projects focused on advanced CRM recycling. In addition, we are developing specific lines for the selective recovery of metals from complex matrices, helping companies meet Europe’s new recycled-content targets.
How can we help?
- Assess the potential of your waste streams to recover critical metals.
- Design bespoke processes to maximise yield and profitability.
- Support industrial validation, from formulation through to scale-up.
- Explore public funding routes and strategic collaborations together.
We know every waste stream is different and there is no single solution. That’s why we listen, analyse and propose. If you want to take a further step towards circularity, we’re here to help you do it with rigour, technical vision and commitment.
