Chapters authored
Germanium: Current and Novel Recovery Processes
Germanium (Ge) is considered a critical element due to its many industrial applications; Ge is a metalloid used in solar cells, fiber optics, metallurgy, chemotherapy, and polymerization catalysis. The main sources of Ge are sulfides ores of Zn, Pb, and Cu, coal deposits, as well as by-products and residues from the processing of these ores and coals (e.g., smelting flue dust and coal fly ashes). Indeed, over 30% of global Ge consumed come from recycling processes. The recovery of Ge from sulfide ores is mostly based on hydrometallurgical processes followed by a number of mass transfer techniques to concentrate Ge (e.g., solvent extraction). However, environmental-friendly extraction methods of Ge from coal fly ashes and copper smelting flue dust have recently been proposed in order to reduce environmental impacts. In addition, novel processes based on absorption of Ge with ribbon grass have become an interesting option not only to produce Ge but also to boost soil decontamination and biogas production. This chapter presents a general description of Ge occurrence, associations, and chemistry as well as a review of the current and novel recovery processes of Ge. The main sources of Ge and its main industrial applications are also discussed.
Part of the book: Advanced Material and Device Applications with Germanium