معرفی
Prof. Koen Binnemans is a full professor at the Department of Chemistry of KU Leuven, Belgium, leading the SOLVOMET Group (Laboratory of Metallurgical Chemistry). His research centers on solvometallurgy, hydrometallurgy, and critical metal recovery through advanced solvent extraction techniques, with particular expertise in rare earth elements.
His work pioneers circular hydrometallurgy principles to minimize waste in metal extraction, encompassing recovery from primary ores and secondary resources like electronic waste. Significant contributions include the 12 Principles of Circular Hydrometallurgy and medical radionuclide generators for targeted alpha therapy using actinium-225/bismuth-213 separation. His research integrates fundamental chemistry with process engineering for sustainable separation technologies.
Recent publications (2023-2025) emphasize solvent extraction innovations for critical metals (rare earths, cobalt, nickel, lithium), circular economy integration, and advanced reactor designs like centrifugal contactors and millifluidic systems. Medical applications of metallurgical chemistry, particularly isotope production, represent a growing research frontier.
Key recognitions include:
- ERC Advanced Grant (SOLCRIMET project)
- Elected member of the Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium for Science and the Arts (KVAB)
As principal investigator, he coordinates major European projects including MSCA-ETN initiatives (EREAN, REDMUD, SOCRATES, DEMETER) and EU H2020 consortia (METGROW+, PLATIRUS, NEMO). These efforts train researchers in sustainable metallurgy while developing industrial-scale solutions for critical raw materials. The SOLVOMET R&I Centre, co-founded by Binnemans, drives translational research through industry-academia partnerships.
The SOLVOMET Group operates within KU Leuven's Department of Chemistry, maintaining state-of-the-art facilities for solvent extraction, reactor engineering, and radiochemistry. The team collaborates globally on projects spanning fundamental speciation studies to industrial process demonstration, with strong ties to mining and recycling industries.
