GeXtract: Dual-Action Adsorbent System for Superior Germanium Recovery from Coal Fly Ash

Germanium (Ge) is a critical material essential for advanced technologies such as infrared optics, fiber optics, microelectronics, and photovoltaics. Recovering Ge from coal fly ash, a promising secondary resource, presents challenges due to its low concentration and the presence of competing metal ions. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project introduces GeXtract, an innovative dual-action solid adsorbent system designed to enhance the selective recovery of Ge from complex leachates. In Phase I, we will systematically evaluate GeXtract on critical parameters including pH dependency, Ge selectivity amidst competing ions, and regeneration potential using synthetic acidic solutions. The success of Phase I will set the stage for Phase II, where we will apply the developed technology to real coal fly ash feedstock, refining the process for broader applications. Phase III will focus on expanding GeXtract's utility beyond military applications to other sectors, ensuring a scalable and efficient Ge recovery process.