How to Greatly Reduce Industrial Mercury Emissions

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a groundbreaking method to significantly reduce mercury levels in sulphuric acid, a widely used industrial chemical. The method involves ionizing mercury and forming an alloy with another metal through electrochemical processes.

An electrode with a platinum surface binds the mercury, creating an alloy that can be safely removed and the electrode regenerated. The researchers have demonstrated a reduction of mercury levels by more than 90%, even from low initial concentrations.

Impacts of mercury contamination on the Environment

Mercury contamination poses a global environmental problem as it can disperse through the air and contaminate water sources, impacting the entire food chain. The substance is highly toxic and can have severe health implications for humans and animals, particularly affecting the central nervous system.

Emissions of mercury from human activities, such as industrial processes and mining, have been increasing, emphasizing the need for effective mercury reduction strategies.

The purification of sulphuric acid is crucial as it is commonly produced from sulfur or as a by-product in mining industry smelters, which can contain mercury. The conventional methods used to remove mercury at earlier stages of production still leave trace amounts in the final product. 

By purifying sulphuric acid, additional mercury emissions can be prevented, and the industry can also produce a high-purity, non-toxic product, meeting the increasing demand for such quality in industrial applications.

Researcher collaboration with Boliden and Atium

The research team collaborated with mining and metals refining company Boliden and Atium, a Chalmers School of Entrepreneurship spin-off company.

Together, they aim to develop a reactor through which sulphuric acid can flow and be purified at an industrial scale. The researchers hope to further scale the method into a pilot process that aligns with real-world volumes.

Reducing mercury emissions and their environmental impact is crucial for the long-term well-being of ecosystems and human health. The innovative approach developed by the Chalmers University of Technology researchers offers significant potential for minimizing mercury levels in sulphuric acid, leading to improved sustainability and reduced environmental impact in various industrial sectors.

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