On the path of recovering platinum-group metals and rhenium: A review on the recent advances in secondary-source and waste materials processing

Several economical and industrial applications related to environmental protection and energy conversion/ storage have posed a high demand for platinum-group metals (PGMs) and Re. These materials are typically used in chemical, petroleum, refinery, and automotive catalysis applications, consequently leading to resource scarcity, despite the intensive efforts undertaken for environment protection. Hence, it is imperative to recirculate these rare metals via recovery and recycling. Moreover, the motivation behind such efforts is fuelled by the substantial gap between the supply, demand, and recycling of PGMs and the projected rapiddepletion of Re resources. Thus, the recovery of PGMs and Re from waste and secondary sources is of paramount significance. Additionally, the criticality of these technologies strongly necessitates research on this subject. In this context, the present study aims to critically review the recent progress and advancements in effective recovery of PGMs and Re from materials relevant in sustainable technologies. Furthermore, the practical aspects, environmental impact, and issues related to the unit processes of PGM and Re recoveries are emphasised.

Automated summary

The high demand for platinum-group metals (PGMs) and Re in economical and industrial applications related to environmental protection and energy conversion/storage has led to resource scarcity. Thus, it is crucial to recover and recycle these rare metals. This study critically reviews the recent progress in the effective recovery of PGMs and Re from materials relevant to sustainable technologies, emphasizing practical aspects, environmental impact, and issues related to the unit processes of recovery.