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Cutting-edge researchers are developing mobile robots that can engage with individuals in ever-changing surroundings, where constant physical interaction occurs with people and the environment. The design of robots for physical Human-Robot Interaction is an exceptionally demanding task, as it necessitates the incorporation of highly responsive and self-aware movement, strong torque capabilities, and agility, all while ensuring dependable and safe operation. The robotic actuators presented here offer high dynamic efficiency and control bandwidth to enable the creation of agile and efficient robots. These actuators incorporate electric motors that produce high torque with greater efficiency, aiming to achieve human-tier capable robots for physical Human-Robot Interaction. The technology involves the development of higher torque electric motors with lower power consumption and weight. These are integrated into robotic actuators with high dynamic efficiency allowing smoother and easier speed control. These actuators enable responsive and self-aware movement, strong torque capabilities, and agility, ensuring dependable and safe operation for robots engaging in physical interaction with people and the environment. Specifications: Rated torque: 3.7 Nm @ 2 A, 48 VDC Peak torque: 12.5 Nm @ 14 A, 48 VDC Max speed @ Rated torque: 450 rpm @ 48 VDC Max speed @ Peak torque: 180 rpm @ 48 VDC Human-Robot Interaction actuators and electric motors have potential applications in various fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and service industries. It can be used to create advanced mobile robots capable of interacting with individuals in dynamic environments, assisting with tasks that require physical interaction and adaptability. Unparalleled dynamics: The actuator has an integrated 5:1 mechanical transmission, which allows it to boast best-in-class response, easier control, and impact absorption capacity.  Integrated Proprioception: It is fitted with a proprietary torque sensor capable of measuring external torques at a resolution down to 0.1 Nm.  Tailor-made digital products: The digital twin based design process allows faster response based on customer needs. The proprietary mechanical transmission has been designed to be inherently safe in the event of external torque overload. This improves physical safety of users and bystanders, whilst avoiding permanent damage to the actuator. The actuator is also available in different configurations to allow easier integration with existing solutions. Plug-and-Play version. This version comes with CNC-machined structural components made of 7075-T6 aluminium. An anodized layer ensures maximum electrical protection and wear resistance. High-precision, single-row, steel bearings provide an axial/radial load capacity of 1000N/1000N. Frameless version. This provides the strictly necessary - stator and rotor with a convenient mechanical interface for seamless integration. Robotics, Actuator, Human-Robot Interaction, Humanoid Electronics, Actuators, Manufacturing, Assembly, Automation & Robotics, Infocomm, Robotics & Automation

High-risk industrial sectors, notably the chemical industry, frequently experience severe safety incidents during production. Traditional risk management approaches, heavily reliant on manual efforts, often suffer from inadequate supervision, incomplete coverage, and suboptimal control. Addressing these challenges, the tech provider offers an advanced solution combining artificial intelligence technologies such as computer vision, the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics. By utilizing existing enterprise cameras and sophisticated algorithmic servers, it establishes a video-based intelligent analysis platform for hidden risk management. This platform enhances overall safety through comprehensive risk perception, proactive hazard identification, predictive warnings, and visual decision-making aids, aiming for widespread and intelligent safety management across high-risk industrial environments. The tech provider integrates AI technology with operational safety in high-risk sectors, developing over 160 bespoke algorithms to monitor the key elements of industrial safety production: people, equipment, environment, and workflows. Its solution includes: Industry-specific Small Sample Detection: Utilizing a Siamese Network structure trained on a mix of normal and abnormal data, their system achieves over 90% accuracy in identifying hazards in high-risk settings. Sequence Standard Action Verification with Transformers: Designed for real-world chemical production interactions, this feature uses Transformer network structures to robustly extract and verify sequence action features, ensuring over 95% detection accuracy in critical operations. Decision Support with Large-Scale Industrial Models and Knowledge Graphs: Combining a specialized industrial large language model with a multimodal knowledge graph, the tech provider facilitates advanced decision-making by leveraging text and visual data for comprehensive understanding. The tech provider significantly enhances safety management and operational processes across various high-risk industries including chemicals, oil fields, mining, power, steel, construction, and ports. Capabilities include: Safety Production Monitoring and Alerts: Supervising standard and temporary operations, and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage. Intelligent Equipment Monitoring: Identifying vehicle issues, equipment leaks, instrument readings, and potential sparks. This technology also extends to quality control, using AI-driven visual inspections to detect and categorize product defects, thus enhancing the precision of industrial quality assessments. The tech provider uniquely blends computer vision with operational safety in hazardous industries, offering a lightweight deployment solution for an "Active Safe Workplace". This system integrates multiple computer vision algorithms for real-time, thoughtful safety information processing, providing: 24/7 Continuous Monitoring: Its AI capabilities enable around-the-clock supervision across all camera feeds. Customizable Algorithms: With over 160 standardized algorithms, tailored developments are possible based on specific scene conditions and business needs. Highly Accurate and Rapid Deployment: Proven in numerous chemical industry applications, their algorithms are not only highly accurate but also quick to implement in new environments. The tech provider's advanced data-driven approach positions it at the forefront of industrial safety technology, facilitating smarter, safer operations across the board. Infocomm, Artificial Intelligence

In the development of communication networks, various challenges emerge in achieving wireless signal coverage in certain areas, while the cost of deploying traditional wired Ethernet remains prohibitive in specific locations. Industries accustomed to slower wired communications now seek high-speed alternatives to facilitate IoT integration and enhance operational efficiency, yet they are hesitant to undertake extensive rewiring efforts. Building networks across diverse settings, including buildings, condominiums, and factories, often encounters significant cost hurdles. This is primarily due to the need for multiple Wi-Fi repeaters to cover areas with poor signal reach, as well as the requirement for numerous network switches and construction work involving cable installation under floors and above ceilings. A solution lies in technology that facilitates data communication over existing wires within facilities, such as flat cables, twisted pair wires, coaxial cables, and power lines. The effective communication speed varies from several Mbps to several tens of Mbps, depending on the type of cable and the wiring environment. Moreover, this technology seamlessly integrates with Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and other existing infrastructures, providing a cost-effective approach to network construction. By leveraging these technologies, it becomes feasible to establish society's network infrastructure at a reduced cost, particularly in challenging environments such as concrete structures, underground areas, tunnels, and spaces with metal walls. IP communication is possible using existing wire Effective speed can range from several Mbps to several tens of Mbps, depending on the type of cable and wiring environment (Ethernet : several hundreds of Mbps to several Gbps) Maximum communication distance (1-to-1 connection) Coaxial cable       : 2,000m Intercom cable     : 1,200m CPEV cable          : 1,200m Telephone cable  : 1,200m Twisted pair         : 1,200m VVF cable            : 1,000m *Up to 10 times the communication distance can be achieved by using the automatic relay function (Ethernet              :   100m) Up to 1024 terminals with single master Free topology including star, tree, daisy chain, ring, etc.   Cost-effective network construction Surveillance camera, video intercom system, smart street light, tunnel lighting, warehouse, EV charger Faster wired communication than old low-speed communication, without requiring new wiring PV, HVAC (Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), video intercom system, smart meter Higher Security Chemical/ Oil & Gas plant Wireless complement Elevators, underground facility (smart meter, water purification plant, boilers, dam), tunnel construction site, tunnel lighting, cable tunnel, shipboard network Long distance Smart meter, smart grid, substation, building automation, BEMS, wind power generation, smart street light Reduce cables Robot, underwater drone The technology contributes in a wide range of fields, from utilization in areas and facilities where wireless communication is not possible, to wiring reduction and wiring construction cost reduction Possible to build a network at low cost E.g. cost could range from 20% to 50% (depending on environment) System upgrade without new wiring Enables higher image quality for video intercom system and more efficient air conditioning and energy management without new wiring Wire saving within equipment Improved fuel efficiency due to lighter weight, lower failure rate, and reduced assembly man-hours    Cost-effective network construction, Reducing the construction time, Any wire communication, Power Line Communication, IoT, Video/ image transmission Infocomm, Networks & Communications, Green Building, Sensor, Network, Building Control & Optimisation, Heating, Ventilation & Air-conditioning, Smart Cities

Reducing heat transfer across surfaces within built environments and transportation units is critical for optimising energy efficiency in thermal comfort systems and mitigating associated costs and carbon emissions. Implementing measures to minimise heat transfer help maintain liveable thermal conditions and promote environmental sustainability. Some of the efficient methods for reducing heat transfer from the surrounding environment include reflecting solar radiation and providing thermal insulation to minimise heat conduction through surfaces. The technology offered here is a nano-engineered aerogel paint designed to reduce heat transfer across surfaces in the built environment. Unlike traditional solar reflectance paint that merely reflects sunlight, this paint actively minimises solar heat absorption, reducing the reliance on cooling and air conditioning systems and resulting in significant energy savings. Additionally, the paint provides excellent weather resistance and reduces maintenance costs by shielding against ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) emissions, moisture, algae, and fungal growth. Its superior coverage capabilities of up to 3 square meter per liter per coat further contribute to cost savings and ensure long-lasting protection for various surfaces. With a proven track record in increasing energy efficiency for containerised offices and refrigeration trucks, the technology owner is now seeking to expand into other applications through on-site testbedding and performance trials. These include warehouses and building rooftop insulation, enhancing data center energy efficiency, and numerous other potential applications. Eco-friendly water-based paint infused with aerogel powder delivering substantial energy and cost saving. Weather resistance, curbing maintenance expenses by shielding surfaces from UV and IR emissions, moisture, algae, and fungal growth. Offers solar reflectivity, insulation, and weatherproofing – a 3-in-1 solution for residential, commercial, and industrial use. Up to 87% solar reflectance per ASTM E-903. Up to 110 in solar reflective index. Ability to mitigate heat transfer through layers enhances its utility across diverse surfaces and applications. Lowering surface temperatures by 15-20 degC in a recent demonstration, which helps in reducing cooling loads and associated air conditioning costs by approximately 10%. Solar reflective aerogel paint addresses the growing need for increasing energy-efficiency in buildings, energy industry and sustainable construction practices, making it important for application in various industries such as: Containerised offices Commercial and industrial warehouses Residential buildings and housing developments Manufacturing facilities and production plants Data centres and server rooms Solar reflective aerogel paint enters a vibrant market shaped by significant growth projections and industry dynamics. With the Global Reflective Cooling Paint Market estimated at USD 673.60 million in 2023 and projected to reach USD 862.21 million by 2029, reflecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.20%, there is a clear trend towards adopting energy-efficient solutions. This growth is fueled by a growing emphasis on sustainable construction practices and the critical role reflective cooling paints play in reducing heat absorption. As demand for such solutions continues to surge, aerogel paint's solar reflective, insulative, and weatherproof features are poised to meet the needs of residential, commercial, and industrial sectors seeking effective and environmentally friendly coatings. Unlike existing products in the market that rely solely on solar reflection or insulating materials with potential drawbacks, the Solar reflective aerogel paint presents a distinct advantage by combining solar reflectivity, superior thermal insulation, and weatherproofing in a single paint formulation. This multifunctionality sets it apart from competitors that focus on only one aspect of thermal management. Aerogel, Solar Reflection, Paint, Heat Transfer Reduction, Energy Saving, Cost Reduction Materials, Nano Materials, Green Building, Façade & Envelope, Sustainability, Low Carbon Economy

Bioprocessing technologies used in scaling manufacturing production typically uses scale-up and scale-out approaches through microcarrier-based stirred tank bioreactors, wave bags or cell stackers and multi-layered flasks. However, during the research and development process of cell and gene therapies, there is a significant technical gap between basic research methods and these manufacturing process development, which causes problems such as increase in time and cost of the development process. Cell and Gene Therapy manufacturing is an emerging area in the biopharmaceutical industry that must overcome high barriers of resource, capacity, and cost constraints. Therefore, it is extremely important to consistently consider and design a culture process from R&D to commercialization as a closed system with a certain size of scale-up and automation.  This technology introduces a robust and economically viable culture process in a closed culture system which comprises of an automated cell culture medium change device that can be installed in commercial CO2 incubators, where the device is coupled with a patented microwell bag and V-shaped adhesion cell culture bag, capable of both spheroid culture (3D) and adhesion culture (2D). This novel technology has established a culture method that meets the requirements of clinical use by improving sterility, reproducibility, and operability, and produces a large number of uniform-sized clusters. The technology owner is seeking partnerships and collaborations with institutions, hospitals, biotechnology and biopharmaceutical firms.  This technology features three different components which can be applied separately or in combination with the automated cell culture system. 1. Spheroid culture bag designed in 2 measurements: A large scale 1,000cm2 (290 mm x 410 mm) surface area with a diameter of 350um and 650,000 wells at a volume of 200-800ml. A small scale 50cm2 (70 mm x 120 mm) surface area with a diameter of 500um and 18,000 wells at a volume of 10-20ml. Spheroid size can be controlled by changing the number of cells seeded. The microwells are treated with ultra-low adhesive substance to inhibit cell adhesion.  Spheroid culture bag has a dedicated holder that is portable, stackable and observable to prevent the movement of spheroids between microwells and inhibit formation of large aggregates. 2. Adhesion culture bag for adherent cells designed in 2 types of surfaces: A flat surface bag usable for microscopic observation. A V-shaped micro-patterned surface area enabling more than 3x of cells per unit area to achieve high density cell culture. A 1,000 cm2 bag would equate to an estimate of 3,000cm2 in area. The inner surface are treated to allow for cell adhesion. This adhesion bag can be applicable not only for cell therapy but also for small volume production of antibody, cytokine and proteins. 3. An automated closed culture medium change device adaptable to both spheroid and adhesion bags: It allows for microscopic observation under a closed system. It is patented in enabling precise pumping control of medium change rate by controlling liquid thickness.  For spheroid culture, it is possible to replace the entire medium while inhibiting the transfer of spheroids from one well to another.  Organoids for high-throughput drug dosing tiration testing.  High-throughput drug efficacy and toxicity screening.  Restructuring of organoids.  Cell therapies using adherent cells such as Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).  Cell differentiation from ES or iPS cells  Mass production of cells for in vivo mice studies injection. The development of new manufacturing technologies and processes that can scale up the production of cell therapies while maintaining quality and reducing costs is a critical factor driving market growth. The global allogeneic cell therapy market was valued at USD 255.6 million in 2022 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.40% from 2023 to 2030 (Research and Markets). A major driver of this growth is the increasing incidence of chronic diseases that can be addressed with allogenic cell therapies. The stem cell therapies segment, particularly allogenic stem cell therapies, dominated the market with the largest share in 2022 due to their widespread application in treating blood cancers, leukemia, lymphoma, and autoimmune disorders. The non-stem cell therapies segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 31.32% by 2030 (Grand View Research). The market size of this technology extends beyond the field of cell therapy manufacturing as it can be widely used for drug discovery screening and mass production of spheroids and organoids in other applicable areas including cultivated meat cultures. UVP of the culture bag:  This technology's patent stems in the design of a culture vessel with a high gas permeable film engineered with different layers of film at a specific thickness ratio, enabling efficient gaseous exchange of O2 and CO2 which is superior to conventional plastic vessels and reduces plastic wastage. The material of the film allows passing of culture gas but does not allow passing of microorganism which contaminates the cell. The size of the bags can be designed according to the purpose of culture. The culture bags has been proven safe and tested to use for clinical and manufacturing grade. Test conducted includes cytotoxicity, endotoxin, sterility, leachables and extractables. This novel microwell culture bag product has provided a superior alternative method for cell clustering.  UVP of the spheroid culture bag: The spheroid culture bag has been optimized in its height to ensure consistent production of homogenous uniformed cell clusters while affirming that diameter does not affect cluster uniformity. The spheroid culture bag exhibits user-friendly operability. Firstly, it allows easy removal of air bubbles in microwells. By simply setting the bag in the holder and incubating overnight, air bubbles can be removed by specific pressure (200-400kgf/m2) applied by the pressing plate holder during incubation. Secondly, formed spheroids can be easily recovered from the bag without pipetting by simply turning the bag upside down. Thirdly, almost all clusters (>99% of total number of cells) after culturing could be collected. Lastly, the microwell bag consistently produces uniform sized clusters.  UVP of the adhesion culture bag: Since the culture area is about three times larger than that of flat substrates, it is possible to perform adhesive culture at three times higher density. In addition, after treating cell detachment solution, cells can be detached without pipetting. The bag volume is smaller than that of rigid culture vessels, saving space during stocking, culturing and disposing.  Biopharmaceutical, Biotechnology, Cell Therapy Manufacturing, Bioprocessing, Culture bag, Automated Cell Culture Device, Gas Permeable Film, Uniform Cell Clusters, Spheriods and Organoids, Adherent Cells, Microwell Cell Culture Materials, Plastics & Elastomers, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals & Therapeutics, Life Sciences, Industrial Biotech Methods & Processes

Only 20% of actual coffee is extracted from beans to produce coffee in its beverage form, leaving the remaining 80% (six million tons annually) deemed as spent coffee grounds (SCG) to be disposed or used in landfills or as non-food product components to make fertilisers, furniture, deodorisers or skin care products. A technology was created to counteract SCG wastage and valorise it for human consumption. This particular invention comprises of methodologies to create two types of ingredients using leftover SCG - oil-grind and water-grind processed SCG. A simple, reproducible method of conching is employed to convert leftover SCG into smooth pastes, where specific conching parameters help refine the SCG to an acceptable particle size, eliminating grittiness in numerous valorised products similar to SCG. The product utilises common ingredients like oil and water to conche SCG with improved taste and textural properties. The shelf stability and nutritional composition (including caffeine) of the ingredients were also validated to ensure the food possessed good sensorial properties and are scale up ready. This technology increases SCG’s potential use as a versatile ingredient in different food applications. The technology provider is seeking off-takers from food manufacturers, food services industry, companies interested to valorise side streams to turn SCG into edible compounds. Technology Features: Uses reproducible method of conching into a functional ingredient with high insoluble dietary fibre (13g/100g) content. Fibre content is higher than instant coffee powder (<1g/100g) and coffee flavourings (0g/100g) and Lower caffeine levels (133mg/100g) compared to regular coffee (3600mg/100g) and is similar to decaffeinated beverages Sodium (<3mg/100g) and sugar free (<0.1g/100g)  Additive free (clean label) Specifications: SCG with particle size ranging between 4.82µm D(v,0.1) to 39.3 µm D[4,3] Moisture content 58.6% The technology was validated by incorporating SCG ingredients into a range of common food products such as beverages and ice cream (water-grind SCG), spreads and chocolate (oil-grind SCG) to help relevant food industries gain a deeper understanding of SCG valorisation, for a greater adoption among food manufacturers to create products using SCG. Can be developed into Ready-to-Drink (RTD) beverages, coffee ice cream, coffee spreads and confectionary (e.g. chocolates and cakes) Companies specialising in upcycling sidestreams and sustainability can explore this technology   Coffee consumption in Singapore increased by 4.8% in the last seven years with 105000, 60kg bags of coffee consumed in 2023 and the market is growing. There is a global push to reduce food side streams and Singapore's Zero Waste Masterplan on the treatment of such side streams by commercial and industrial generators, which aligns with the proposition of this technology. Similar technologies such as these may not be as cost effective. The technology uses basic ingredients such as water and oil and is easily reproducible. It does not involve high CAPEX investment or vigorous training processes that disrupts production process. Conching machines are commercially available, and the licensee can choose to purchase the equipment based on their production scale requirements. The conching process is easy to pick up. In addition, replacing coffee flavouring agents with SCG, customers can benefit from the natural and functional coffee flavour and caffeine SCG imparts into all the food applications. The product is rich in insoluble fibre which can help to regulate blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Caffeine is known to stimulate the Central Nervous System (CNS) in the body, which can improve cognitive abilities (e.g. alertness, reaction time). Coffee, Spent Coffee Grounds (SCG), valorisation, water-grind SCG, oil-grind SCG, scale-up, accelerated shelf-life evaluation, food safety and quality, food industries, technology adoption Foods, Ingredients, Processes, Waste Management & Recycling, Food & Agriculture Waste Management

The manufacturing of electronic devices often involves multiple steps, where metal wiring is a fundamental component providing electrical connections and resin resist stripping solution is used to remove photoresist layers after the patterning and etching processes. Both steps are critical in the production of various electronic components, including printed circuit boards (PCBs), semiconductors, and microelectronic devices. Advances in such processes continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in electronics manufacturing, enabling the production of devices with higher performance, smaller size, and lower cost. Research and development efforts to seek safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly methods are ongoing challenges. The technology owner has developed a proprietary chemical solution for metal wiring, especially targeting copper (Cu) wiring, although metals such as aluminium and gold are also used due to their excellent electrical conductivity. This unique chemical solution can ensure high-quality and precious shape control of wiring formation. This is also complemented by an advanced resin resist stripping solution, which not only exfoliates the photoresist, but also preserves the base metal from scraping / damage. On top of this, this solution enables controlled roughing of metal surfaces to meet specific requirements. The effectiveness of both solutions has been validated in the mass production of liquid crystal panels. The technology owner is seeking R&D collaboration with industrial partners interested in adopting these solutions into their electronic device manufacturing lines. Key features of the metal wiring chemical solution include: Precious shape control of metal wiring using unique electronic polarity of organic acids High-quality and high-stability control of the wiring shape Applicable for laminated metals and specific layer etching High design flexibility to meet application needs Seamlessly integration with existing metal wiring processes Key features of the resin resist stripping solution include: Achieve fine pattern formation using nucleophilic substitution ability of amine High stripping power suitable for hardbake resist Compatible stripping force to control base metal damage Reduce damage rates and improve product reliability Customisable to meet different requirements These innovative solutions could revolutionise the manufacturing processes of various electronic substrates and components. Potential applications include (but are not limited to): Liquid crystal display (LCD) panel production Semiconductor manufacturing Manufacturing of flexible electronics And beyond: medical device and microelectronic device manufacturing Optimise the manufacturing process of electronic substrates Fully customisable for specific substrates and requirements Easily adaptable into existing manufacturing lines Proven effectiveness in the mass production of liquid crystal display panels Metal Etching Solution, Resist Peeling Solution,, semiconductor manufacturing, electronic equipment manufacturing Electronics, Semiconductors, Display, Manufacturing, Chemical Processes

The demand for thinner, lighter, and more durable glass in consumer electronics and other high-tech applications is constantly increasing. Thinner and lighter glass not only enables the design of sleeker devices but also enhances the tactile responsiveness of touchscreens, contributing to the overall performance and durability of the product. However, conventional glass thinning solutions face challenges, particularly in dealing with surface imperfections, which can impact the quality and efficiency of glass manufacturing. During the thinning process, surface imperfections like scratches and dimples become more pronounced, significantly affecting the optical clarity and overall quality of the glass, leading to increased product rejection rates and manufacturing costs. To address such challenges, the technology owner has developed a proprietary chemical solution specifically for glass slimming or thinning, aiming at effective dimple suppression while maintaining the desired thickness. This advanced solution enables the uniform melting or removal of material from the glass surface, preventing the spread of small scratches and the formation of dimples on the glass surface. This chemical solution ensures the production of super-thin and high-quality glass that aligns with the dynamic demands of the evolving industry. Its application proves beneficial in industries where the precision and quality of glass are paramount. The technology owner is seeking R&D collaboration with industrial partners interested in adopting this chemical solution in the processing or manufacturing of glass related components. This solution enables the uniform melting or removal of material from the glass surface, effectively mitigating the spread of small scratches and preventing dimple formation. Key features of this technology include: Enhanced glass performance: dimple suppression contributes to the uniformity of glass, ensuring optical clarity, tactile responsiveness and aesthetic appearance Improved product durability: the presence of dimples leads to stress concentration. Suppressing dimples helps maintain the strength and durability of glass product Cost-effectiveness: this chemical solution can be seamlessly integrated into existing  glass processing or manufacturing lines, making it viable for mass production This chemical solution can be applied to processing / manufacturing of various thinner and lighter glass components. Potential applications include (but are not limited to): Advanced display: liquid crystal display (LCD) in various electronic devices like TVs, monitors, smartphones, etc. Optics and photonics: high performance lenses and optical components for cameras and microscope Medical devices: lab-on-a-chip devices, microfluidic devices, biosensors, diagnostic chips, etc. Flexible electronics: rollable / foldable displays, flexible solar cells, and wearable devices, etc. Improve the overall quality of glass Reduce rejection rates and manufacturing costs Customisable to meet different requirements Adaptable to existing glass processing facilities Glass Processing, dimple suppression, Electronics, Optics, Medical Devices Manufacturing, Surface Finishing & Modification, Chemical Processes, Chemicals, Organic

The exponential growth of electronic waste (E-waste) generation is proliferating due to the ever-increasing demand for electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) driven by industrial revolution and development. The COVID-19 crisis has further accelerated the shift towards digital transformation, contributing to an upsurge in E-waste generation. To-date, the industrial practices of extracting palladium (Pd) from electronic waste and mining ores rely on hydrometallurgy techniques using highly corrosive acids, typically aqua regia at elevated temperature. The process poses severe hazards to workers and lead to environmental pollution. Aqua regia’s capability to dissolve many various metals results in low selectivity for Pd. Despite ongoing efforts to develop alternative methods, these methods often prove impractical for industrial adoption. The technology provider has developed a proprietary lixiviant capable of extracting palladium up to 4,000 ppm at saturation with high extraction efficiency and selectivity within 12 hours. This lixiviant is facile, cost-effective, and significantly less corrosive and hazardous compared to current industrial practices. Substituting fuming aqua regia with this lixiviant could enhance the protection of workers and environmental safety. Importantly, the proposed technology is highly compatible with existing hydrometallurgy processes, eliminating the need for companies to change their current infrastructure. An E-waste industry partner has successfully conducted a pilot-scale (5-Litre scale) evaluation, validating the effectiveness and applicability of the lixiviant on their Pd-coated samples. The technology provider is actively seeking industry partners interested in test-bedding and licensing of this technology. Low cyanide concentration (< 50 ppm) stabilized in alkaline solution Optimal operating temperature of 90°C High selectivity (> 86%) and high extraction rate (> 86%) of palladium Cost-effective at ≤ USD 2.12/L extracting up to 4,000 ppm palladium at saturation within 12 hours Easy adoption and high compatibility with existing industrial hydrometallurgy systems Improve workplace safety and health which better protects workers and the environment Electronic wastes, such as Pd-coated connectors, Pd-coated wire bonding, etc. Pd-coated industrial wastes Recovered palladium can be further refined for resale and reuse In recent years, many countries have mandated environmental responsibilities to electronic manufacturers to establish producer recycling programs and ban E-waste disposal into landfills. E-waste contains precious metals, such as palladium, gold and silver that are highly sought-after by E-waste recycling companies due to their scarcity, high value and demand, and are actively traded as commodities over the last decades. The extraction of precious metals from E-waste is not only commercially attractive but also aligns with Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental, Social, and Governance goals for resource recovery and environmental protection. The global E-waste market size was valued at USD 52.6 billion in 2022 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.1% from 2022 to 2032, to reach USD 160.2 billion (Market.us, 2023). The proposed technology features a proprietary lixiviant capable of extracting palladium up to 4,000 ppm at saturation with a high extraction efficiency (≥ 89%) and high purity (≥ 92%). This cost-effective lixiviant is significantly less hazardous as compared to current industrial practices, thus better protecting workplace safety and health. Notably, the technology is compatible with existing hydrometallurgy processes and has been successfully verified at pilot-scale (5-Litre) in collaborating with an industry partner. Hydrometallurgy, palladium recovery, palladium extraction, palladium recycling, precious metal recovery, precious metal extraction, precious metal recycling, electronic waste (E-waste) recycling, electronic waste treatment Chemicals, Catalysts, Waste Management & Recycling, Industrial Waste Management