Development of Alkyl-Modified Azothioformamide Ligands for Enhanced Solvent Compatibility in Precious Metal Extraction
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Kristopher Waynant, University of Idaho
Presentation Date
7-15-2026
Abstract
The growing demand for electronic devices produces millions of tons of electronic waste (E-waste) annually, yet low recycling rates and current energy-intensive and hazardous extraction methods raise concerns regarding the long-term sustainability of the current metal recovery practices. Azothioformamide (ATF) and several unique ATF derivatives have demonstrated the ability to oxidatively dissolve and isolate precious metals commonly found in E-waste. In order to expand the flexibility of these ligands to more varied solvent extraction conditions, alkyl chains with variable lengths were introduced onto the terminal thioamide, reducing ligand polarity and increasing compatibility with nonpolar solvents such as kerosine. The synthesis and characterization of these modified ATF compounds provide insight into ligand structure and solvent compatibility, broaden potential applications of ATF-based metal extraction, and advance the exploration of more sustainable approaches to precious metal recovery from E-waste. This work contributes to the development of more sustainable strategies and practices for the recovery of metals from E-waste.
Development of Alkyl-Modified Azothioformamide Ligands for Enhanced Solvent Compatibility in Precious Metal Extraction
The growing demand for electronic devices produces millions of tons of electronic waste (E-waste) annually, yet low recycling rates and current energy-intensive and hazardous extraction methods raise concerns regarding the long-term sustainability of the current metal recovery practices. Azothioformamide (ATF) and several unique ATF derivatives have demonstrated the ability to oxidatively dissolve and isolate precious metals commonly found in E-waste. In order to expand the flexibility of these ligands to more varied solvent extraction conditions, alkyl chains with variable lengths were introduced onto the terminal thioamide, reducing ligand polarity and increasing compatibility with nonpolar solvents such as kerosine. The synthesis and characterization of these modified ATF compounds provide insight into ligand structure and solvent compatibility, broaden potential applications of ATF-based metal extraction, and advance the exploration of more sustainable approaches to precious metal recovery from E-waste. This work contributes to the development of more sustainable strategies and practices for the recovery of metals from E-waste.