Asteroid mining edges closer with solvent extraction
Scientists at the University of Adelaide are fine-tuning a solvent extraction process that could help make asteroid mining economically viable.
The technique relies upon continuous-flow chemistry, where tailored combinations of solvents are mixed with asteroid material to harvest the precious metals contained within. According to the researchers, the process is scalable and can operate in zero gravity and vacuum conditions. Its capabilities are currently being trialled in-orbit following a May 4 launch coordinated in partnership with US firm Space Tango.
“Continuous-flow chemistry is proven technology,” said Professor Volker Hessel, deputy dean of research at the University of Adelaide’s Faculty of Engineering, Computer & Mathematical Sciences (ECMS) and Professor in the School of Chemical Engineering. “The process extracts metal by mixing and separating solvents. Successive passes of the chemicals through the process results in complete extraction of the metals.”
“Asteroid-born metals co-exist in different combinations and concentrations from those found in terrestrial rock, so one of the challenges that the team has is understanding how these may be successfully extracted. This new disruptive technology is needed as traditional technology does not provide the solution.
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