The challenge holder has developed an innovative process for recovering metals from electronic waste, with a particular emphasis on printed circuit boards. The initial commercial application targets the leaching and extraction of high-value metals such as copper and gold from the feedstock. However, the leaching process also dissolves a range of other metals and minerals, which are currently discarded as residue by-products. The challenge holder now seeks economically viable solutions to recover these additional elements and convert them into saleable products.
Who can apply?
Entrants to this competition must be:
- Established businesses, academic institutions, start-ups, SMEs, or individual entrepreneurs
- UK based or have the intention to set up a UK base
- Anything related to the competition theme
The Challenge
The Challenge holder invites technology providers to propose solution for recovering minor metals and minerals including aluminium, antimony, bismuth, cobalt, iron, lead, magnesium, nickel, tin, and zinc from either a chloride media or an alkaline mixed metal precipitate.
This is one of three iX challenges currently open within the Climates sector alongside Novel processing methods to extract and refine nickel copper and cobalt products from sulphide mineral concentrates and Metal recovery from wastewater integrated hydrogen production systems.
Rewards & Market Opportunity
Successful applicants will be given an opportunity to pitch to Challenge Holder. Selected solutions will be trialled by Challenge holder with potential for further adoption if trials are successful.
In Q3/Q4 2026 it will be possible to test the solutions at the tonne scale in an operational pre-commercial facility that will process at least 1 tonne printed circuit boards per week.
The benefits package for a successful applicant may also include:
- Support from Innovate UK Business Connect
- Support in the development of a prototype or pilot
- Technical support
- Invitation to attend or present at Innovate UK Business Connect events
- A potential business collaboration
- Investor introductions (if investment is required)
Accessibility and Inclusion
Innovate UK welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to making our application process accessible to everyone. This includes making reasonable adjustments, for people who have a disability or a long-term condition and face barriers applying to us.