55 for a technology first developed by the University of Leicester ’ s Professor Andrew Abbott in the 1990s . “ Andy has the most amazing mind , and is an expert in the field of chemistry ,” explains Hyde . “ He effectively came up with a way to un-bake a cake ; by using ionic salts , to dissolve metals , and then extract and separate metals to allow them to be reused .”
The science behind the innovation involves a special set of non-toxic ionic liquids . These deep eutectic solvents ( DES ) have a track record of replacing the use of water and toxic chemicals in a wide range of industries – from pharmaceuticals or paints , to turbine blades . “ We have found a way to dissolve group metals without roasting ores and releasing sulfuric acid and arsenic ,” reveals Hyde , of a process capable of dissolving gold without the use of cyanide and water . “ Imagine the possibility – and the value to an ethical market – of mercury-free gold …” she offers . “ Countries that have valuable metals resources will welcome non-toxic recovery and less intrusive mine and waste dam design .”
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