Scientists Turn E-Waste Into Pure Gold Using Pool Cleaner and Sunlight

21 August 2025

Scientists Turn E-Waste Into Pure Gold Using Pool Cleaner and Sunlight

Researchers at Flinders University in Australia have developed an innovative & eco friendly technique to recover ultra pure gold (over 99 %) from electronic waste & ore using a common pool…

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Researchers at Flinders University in Australia have developed an innovative & eco friendly technique to recover ultra pure gold (over 99 %) from electronic waste & ore using a common pool disinfectant, trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA), activated by saltwater and UV light, which dissolves the gold. The dissolved gold is then captured by a novel sulfur-rich polymer that can selectively bind the metal and release it on command; importantly, the polymer is recyclable and survives multiple cycles. This method eliminates the need for toxic chemicals such as cyanide and mercury, drastically reducing environmental and health risks, while offering a low-cost and sustainable alternative for both e waste recycling and small-scale mining.

Source: <a href="https://bit.ly/3UITkbm">https://bit.ly/3UITkbm</a>

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