Acidless Separation for Precious Metals Recovery
ALS2 is an innovative acidless separation technology developed by Ikoi S.p.A., designed for sustainable recovery of precious metals from e-waste and WEEE recycling streams.
Technology That Eliminates Acid in Separation
The ALS2 project introduces an acidless approach to separating precious metals, reducing environmental impact while maintaining high recovery efficiency. Developed by Ikoi S.p.A., the technology targets the growing challenge of e-waste recycling.
By removing acid from the separation process, ALS2 offers a safer, cleaner alternative for precious metals refining operations worldwide.
Small-Scale ALS Plant
At T-GOLD 2020, Ikoi presented the concept of a new small-scale ALS Plant developed as part of the ALS2 Project, bringing acidless technology to compact operations.
WEEE Recycling Solutions
In June 2019, Ikoi presented dedicated solutions for WEEE recycling using ALS2 project technology, addressing the fast-growing electronic waste stream.
Sustainability in Refining
Prof. Michael Mooiman discussed acidless technology in the context of sustainability in refining operations, highlighting its role in the precious metals sustainability chain.
Acidless Process
Eliminates hazardous acids from precious metals separation, improving workplace safety and environmental outcomes.
EU-Funded Research
Supported by Horizon 2020, the EU's flagship research and innovation programme, under grant agreement Nº822464.
E-Waste Recovery
Purpose-built for WEEE recycling, recovering precious metals from electronic waste streams efficiently.
Italian Engineering
Developed by Ikoi S.p.A., based in San Zeno di Cassola, Italy — specialists in precious metals refining equipment.
Learn More About the ALS2 Project
Explore the latest developments, exhibition appearances, and technical insights from the team behind acidless separation technology.
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The ALS2 project represents a meaningful shift in how the precious metals refining industry approaches environmental responsibility. Traditional separation methods often rely on aggressive chemical processes that generate significant waste and require extensive safety measures. By developing an acidless approach, this technology aims to reduce the ecological footprint of metal recovery while maintaining high efficiency. The innovation is particularly relevant as global demand for precious metals continues to rise alongside the growing volume of discarded electronic devices. This project contributes to a circular economy model where valuable materials are recovered and reintroduced into production cycles rather than being lost to landfills. Worried about what’s really in the water leaving your e-waste process? Our latest article breaks down exactly how acidless separation protects both your plant and the environment—read the full story How ALS2 Can Make E-Waste Water Safer.
Precious metals are essential components in countless modern technologies, from medical devices to telecommunications equipment. However, their extraction and refining have historically carried environmental costs that the industry is now working to address. The acidless separation technology developed through the ALS2 project focuses specifically on recovering these valuable materials from waste electrical and electronic equipment. This approach not only conserves natural resources by reducing the need for primary mining but also addresses the urgent challenge of electronic waste management. The process represents a convergence of economic viability and environmental stewardship.
The European Union's Horizon 2020 programme has long supported research and innovation that pushes boundaries across scientific and industrial sectors. Funding for the ALS2 project reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable technologies that can transform traditional manufacturing and recycling practices. Explore how ALS2 compares with traditional copper-smelting methods in our latest article: ALS2 and copper-smelting routes for recovering precious metals. This support enables the development of solutions that might otherwise struggle to move from concept to commercial application. The collaboration between research institutions and industrial partners creates a pathway for laboratory-scale innovations to achieve real-world impact, demonstrating how strategic investment can accelerate the transition toward more sustainable industrial processes.
Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, containing complex mixtures of materials that require specialised handling. Within this waste stream, precious metals represent a small but highly valuable fraction that justifies investment in advanced recovery technologies. The acidless separation approach offers an alternative to conventional methods that often involve hazardous chemicals and high energy consumption. By refining this technology, the ALS2 project aims to make precious metals recovery more accessible and environmentally sound for recycling operations. This contributes to building infrastructure capable of handling the increasing volumes of electronic waste generated by modern society.