German University Breaks Ground in Gallium Recycling from Wastewater
Researchers at the Freiberg University of Mining and Technology have made a breakthrough in recycling rare metals. They've developed a pilot plant to extract gallium from industrial wastewater, a crucial step in reducing dependence on imports and lowering costs for the high-tech industry.
Gallium, a silvery, rare metal, is vital for high-tech products. It melts at a low 30 degrees Celsius and is very valuable, with production costs around $200 per kilogram and market prices reaching up to $1,000 per kilogram. The worldwide market price as of September 30, 2025, is 1,665.00 USD per ton.
The pilot plant uses special bacteria to form molecules that bind and concentrate gallium from wastewater. Currently, it can process 100 liters per day, with the potential to scale up to 1,000 to 2,000 liters per day. This could save two to five tons of gallium per year in the German high-tech sector, making recycling increasingly important as prices rise year by year.
The successful operation of the pilot plant demonstrates the potential of recycling gallium from industrial wastewater. This not only reduces dependence on imports but also helps manage the rising costs of this valuable metal in the high-tech industry.
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