Our Polymers
Our polymers act as a smart filter that can extract rare or dangerous compounds from the environment or industrial waste or products. We can then use, re-use or eliminate, depending on the compound of interest.
Several rare metals important in the production of superalloys and components for a range of industrial sectors are particularly scarce and difficult to mine or recycle. Due to their complex chemistry, traditional methods do not offer a fully comprehensive solution for their extraction and recycling. In response, the research undertaken at the University of Lincoln has developed innovative extraction methodologies, leading to improved industrial processes for rare metal extraction.
Examples of compounds that can be extracted by our polymers include:
Rhenium
This compound is used in nickel-based superalloys that can be found in the combustion chambers, turbine blades and exhaust nozzles of jet engines.
Yttrium
This is used as an additive in alloys as it increases the strength of aluminium and magnesium alloys. Yttrium is also used to make superconductors.
Scandium
This compound is commonly used in sports equipment such as baseball bats, bicycle frames and golf clubs. Scandium is also used for aircraft components.
