Magnetic Concentration of Platinum Group Metals from Catalyst Scraps Using Iron Deposition Pretreatment

Abstract

Spent automobile catalysts are the most important secondary source of platinum group metals (PGMs). However, effective recovery of PGMs from catalyst scraps is difficult because they are present in only small quantities as chemically stable substances. In this study, in order to improve the efficiency of the existing recycling processes, the authors experimentally investigated a novel physical concentration pretreatment process for PGMs using samples that simulate an automobile catalyst. In order to magnetically separate PGMs directly from the catalysts, ferromagnetic Fe was deposited on the PGM particles (or the porous catalyst layer) using an electroless plating technique. By using a plating bath containing sodium borohydride and potassium sodium tartrate as the reducing and complexing agents, respectively, Fe was successfully deposited on the sample without requiring complicated pretreatments such as sensitization and activation. After Fe deposition and subsequent pulverization, the PGMs could be extracted and concentrated in the form of magnetic powder using a magnet. The proposed magnetic concentration process was demonstrated to be feasible, and it has the potential to make the recycling of PGMs more efficient and environmentally friendly.