IIT Develops Novel Nanomaterial for Efficient Recovery of Rare Earth and Uranium Resources
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee have developed an acid-resistant magnetic nanocomposite capable of recovering uranium and rare earth elements from acidic leach solutions. The material consists of core active nanoparticles encapsulated in a protective silica layer, enabling efficient absorption and extraction of these valuable resources in complex acidic aqueous media. By synthesizing the silica shell using biocompatible reagents, the researchers not only enhanced the material's corrosion resistance but also made it safer and more environmentally friendly. This novel nanocomposite demonstrated exceptional performance in laboratory tests, recovering up to 370 grams of uranium and rare earth elements per kilogram of material. It can operate effectively not only under conditions such as natural groundwater...
2026-08-01