Our technology
BioMetalix is developing a tunable, protein-based flotation platform that captures and concentrates valuable metals from aqueous streams. By combining selective metal-binding chemistry with low-energy foam separation, the technology could reduce solvent use, waste generation, and the number of downstream purification steps required for critical-mineral recovery.
Selective metal capture powered by protein chemistry
BioMetalix develops protein–ligand conjugates, or PLCs, by modifying naturally foaming proteins with metal-binding molecules. The protein provides the physical properties needed for foam separation, while the attached ligand provides affinity for selected metals.
When a PLC is added to a metal-containing aqueous stream, it binds the target metal. Air bubbles then carry the metal–PLC complex to the surface, concentrating it in a removable foam. The metal can subsequently be released under controlled conditions, allowing both the recovered material and the separation reagent to be collected for further use.
Capture
The PLC binds selected dissolved metals.
Float
Air bubbles transport the metal–PLC complex to the surface.
Concentrate
The complex is collected in a smaller foamate volume.
Recover
The metal is released and the PLC is regenerated for potential reuse.
The BioMetalix platform is being developed for integration with industrial foam-fractionation and dissolved-air-flotation systems.
Bench-scale validation
Bench-scale experiments have demonstrated selective rare-earth capture, enrichment under high-salt conditions, and europium–lanthanum separation in controlled systems. Performance in industrial feedstocks will depend on feed composition and operating conditions.