DEEP EUTECTIC SOLVENTS
(DES)
A new and innovative class of chemistry with unique characteristics and capabilities
Why Develop DES?
Sustainable
Low-energy, non-toxic processing to produce low-carbon & low-impact metals
Affordable
Cheap, readily available, biodegradable, & recyclable solvents
Scalable
Low capital intensity and a small area footprint means the process can be scaled to small and large operations
What is a DES?
DES are combinations of two or more components which form a mixture with a melting point lower than that of each component - click for science
Metals behave differently in DES than in water-based systems
DES components (salts & organic compounds) are environmentally benign, and many are also biodegradable
Applications
DES - A Platform Chemistry
There are millions of possible DES formulations, with each formulation having different properties & attributes suited to a particular task.
DES formulations can be customised by adjusting the components and their ratios; creating the opportunity to tailor solutions for a wide range of metals
Metals Proven Amenable To DES
Battery/Critical Metals
Precious Metals
Other Metals
Yet To Be Evaluated
E-waste
Recycling
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The World's fastest growing waste stream
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Growing to US$82bn annually by 2030
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Many critical and precious metals are contained within e-waste, making e-waste valuable but environmentally hazardous
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DEScycle's technology has been developed as a disruptive & clean alternative to current high-impact & capital intensive recycling methods
Recycling & recovery of valuable metals from e-waste
Clean, cost-efficient solution to current high-energy & capital intensive recycling methods
Fossil Fuels
E-Waste
Electricity
Sorting & Shredding
Roasting &
Smelting
Cyanide & Refining
Sorting & Shredding
Descycle Process
No Roasting
No Smelting
No Cyanide
Capital Expenditure
$$$ billions
Capital Expenditure
$ millions
DESCYCLE PROCESS
STANDARD PROCESS
Minerals
Processing
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DEScycle is working with multiple metals & mining partners to solve inherent industry problems to supply critical and battery metals that will underpin the transition to a low carbon economy
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Opportunities:
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Nickel & Cobalt- battery metals
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Gold - replacing cyanide & toxic solvents
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Copper & Base Metals - water-free processing
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Rare Earth Elements - simplify complex processing
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