| UvA researchers have discovered a new material that can catalyse the decomposition of cyanide ions in process waste streams. The catalyst has been patented and attracts interest from industry. Germany's oldest gold and silver refining company Heimerle + Meule is now examining the possibilities of using the catalyst for waste effluent treatment. The research is part of the research priority area Sustainable Chemistry.
Gold, silver, platinum and palladium are used all over the world in coins, bullion, investments, jewellery and electronics. But there is a less shiny side to these metals as well: their production and refining processes typically require large amounts of cyanide salts, which are highly toxic...............................................Full Article: Source
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