Work

A brief review of copper recovery from electroplating sludge

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Electroplating sludge is a hazardous waste generated during the chemical treatment of electroplating wastewater and poses a serious threat to the environment due to its high content of heavy metals and toxic organic matter. Copper is a precious metal commonly present in electroplating sludge, and its recovery offers both economic and environmental benefits. This article systematically reviews 30 relevant research articles published since 2010, focusing on the advantages and disadvantages of treating copper-containing electroplating sludge using heat treatment, leaching, materialisation, electrochemical methods and ionic liquid approaches. The aim is to provide a reference for selecting the most suitable processes for treating electroplating sludge in future applications, promoting sustainable resource development and the establishment of a circular economy.

Source: Discover Sustainability

DOI: 10.1007/s43621-025-02572-0

Authors: Yan Pan, Xiaoyun Wu, Yaoxing Liu

Institutions: Fujian Normal University, Fujian Chuanzheng Communications College

Language: English

Topic: Extraction and Separation Processes

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,390