Enhanced silver recovery from electronic wastes using ionic liquid-integrated nanocomposite membrane

The rapid iteration of electronic technology has exacerbated the environmental challenges posed by electronic waste containing valuable and often critical metals such as silver (Ag). Efficient recovery of Ag from waste streams is critical to mitigate environmental impacts and promote the circular economy as it can be found in a large majority of all electronic components, due to its favorable electrical properties. In this study, we present an innovative integration of ionic liquids (ILs), specifically tetrabutylphosphonium hydroxide ([TBPH][OH]), with metal–organic framework MOF-74 (Mg) in thin-film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes for enhanced Ag recovery. The encapsulation of ILs in MOF-74 (Mg) addresses key challenges such as IL instability and detachment, while utilizing the high porosity, hydro stability, and coordinative unsaturated sites of the MOF to improve overall membrane performance. The resulting IL-MOF TFN membrane demonstrates superior selectivity, stability, and efficiency in the recovery of Ag (99.4%) from Ag-bearing solution leachated ceramic capacitors. This work highlights a synergistic approach combining the unique properties of ILs and MOFs to develop sustainable and high performance solutions for metal recovery applications.