Access to critical raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth metals is under pressure. The ReValue project demonstrates how we can sustainably recover these minerals from seawater and industrial wastewater using advanced, PFAS-free membrane technology.
Unlocking value through membrane crystallisation
The key technology behind ReValue is membrane crystallisation. This is an emerging separation technique that allows for the controlled recovery of dissolved substances, such as salts and metals, from liquid streams. It offers an energy-efficient solution to reclaim value from seawater and process water that would otherwise be considered waste.
However, conventional membranes used in this process typically rely on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to ensure water resistance. These compounds are persistent, pose health risks, and are increasingly regulated or banned.
PFAS-free innovation with long-term performance
In ReValue, new ceramic PFAS-free membranes have been developed based on alkylphosphonic acid grafting. These membranes combine:
- High liquid entry pressures,
- Outstanding chemical and thermal stability,
- Reliable long-term performance in vacuum membrane distillation;
The membranes outperformed conventional PFAS-treated versions in both flux and durability tests, making them an environmentally safer and technically robust alternative for industrial separation processes.
Membrane crystallisation is of interest to us, since this technology contributes to efficient brine treatment by improving both recovery of valuable compounds and recovery of water.
Monique Woen from Lenntech (ReValue consortium)
Demonstrating real-world impact
The ReValue project does not stop at lab-scale validation. The membranes will be tested with model mixtures of real industrial waste streams, in conditions that mimic field applications. Special attention will be given to how surface roughness and micro/nano structuring affect membrane crystallisation behaviour.
The goal is to show that these membranes can enable the economically viable recovery of critical components from complex water streams. This adds circular value and reduces the environmental footprint.
Contributing to a systemic materials transition
ReValue is part of ISPT’s broader mission to accelerate the material transition and enable a CO₂-neutral, circular industry by 2050. By focusing on practical progress through collaboration, ISPT ensures that innovative technologies like membrane crystallization move from concept to application.
Learn more
Would you like to know more about this project or explore opportunities to collaborate? Please contact Otto Tobé.