Lithium Universe Limited (ASX: LU7) has made significant strides in recycling and recovering critical metals from e-waste and solar panels, aiming to address global supply shortages and environmental challenges. The company has acquired Macquarie University’s Microwave Joule Heating Technology (MJHT) and Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE) method, which enables the recovery of valuable metals from end-of-life photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. This technology uses microwave energy to selectively heat silicon cells, softening the ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) encapsulant that binds a solar panel’s layers, allowing for room-temperature delamination of glass, silicon, and metal layers without the use of crushing, furnaces, or toxic chemicals. Following delamination, Lithium Universe applies its Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE) process, achieving over 95% silver recovery at 96% purity while using 83% less acid and no chemical additives. The process operates at just 5 volts, recycles its electrolyte, and produces zero heavy-metal waste, establishing a true closed-loop recycling system.
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Lithium Universe has also secured an exclusive worldwide licence from the University of Edinburgh to commercialise its Gold and Copper Diamide Extraction (GCDE) technology. This technology uses a simple, recyclable tertiary diamide ligand to selectively recover valuable metals from complex acidic solutions, including those generated from electronic waste. Laboratory testing has demonstrated greater than 99% gold recovery and near-complete platinum recovery under specific laboratory conditions, significantly expanding the potential application of the technology beyond its original focus on gold and copper recovery. The company is investigating whether the diamide can become a broader critical-metals recovery platform targeting gold, gallium, platinum, and copper from e-waste.
Additionally, Lithium Universe is planning to build a green, battery-grade lithium carbonate refinery in Bécancour, Québec, leveraging the proven technology developed at the Jiangsu Lithium Carbonate Plant. This refinery will produce up to 18,270 tonnes per year of lithium carbonate, focusing initially on the production of lithium carbonate for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. The company is also launching a second lithium refinery strategy in the Port of Brownsville, Texas, complementing its planned flagship Bécancour project in Québec.
These initiatives reflect Lithium Universe’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for critical metals and lithium in North America, while also contributing to environmental sustainability through innovative recycling solutions.