Lithium Universe Reports 99% Gold Recovery with Sustainable GCDE Process

Laboratory Breakthrough in Gold Recovery

Lithium Universe Limited (ASX:LU7) has taken a significant step forward with its licensed Gold Copper Diamide Extraction (GCDE) technology, reporting over 99% gold recovery and producing metallic gold at 97.04% purity from complex chloride solutions. The testing, conducted in partnership with the University of Edinburgh, demonstrated the technology’s ability to selectively extract gold from multi-metal chloride mixtures, a key challenge in both mining and e-waste recycling.

Unlike conventional solvent extraction methods, GCDE operates without organic solvents, simplifying the chemical flowsheet and reducing environmental impact. The proprietary diamide reagent selectively precipitates gold, which is then converted into metallic form using a standard reduction process. This approach also enables reagent recyclability over multiple cycles, supporting lower operating costs.

Outstanding Metal Selectivity and Process Flexibility

One of the standout features of the GCDE process is its exceptional selectivity. Under 2 M hydrochloric acid conditions, gold recovery exceeded 99%, while base metals such as aluminium, copper, nickel, zinc, and even other precious metals like palladium and platinum remained largely in solution. This selective precipitation reduces the need for complex downstream purification, potentially improving overall process economics.

By adjusting acid concentration, the process can sequentially recover other valuable metals like iron, tin, and platinum, offering a flexible and tuneable extraction route. This capability could be particularly advantageous when processing complex ores or recycled materials, where multiple metals must be recovered efficiently.

Dual Application in Mining and E-Waste Recycling

Beyond primary mining applications, GCDE technology demonstrated 98% gold recovery from dissolved electronic waste, confirming its relevance in the burgeoning precious metals e-waste recycling market, valued at an estimated US$11.8 billion in 2025. This dual applicability aligns with growing global emphasis on circular economy principles and sustainable resource management.

GCDE’s low-temperature, reagent-recycling process contrasts with traditional smelting and pyrolysis, which are energy-intensive and environmentally taxing. The technology’s ability to recover gold efficiently from e-waste without organic solvents or high temperatures positions it as a promising contender in sustainable precious metals extraction.

Strategic Positioning and Broader Resource Recovery Initiatives

Lithium Universe is advancing GCDE towards pilot-scale demonstration and commercialisation, aiming to disrupt established precious metals recovery techniques. CEO Iggy Tan emphasised the technology’s potential to offer a cost-effective, environmentally friendly alternative for gold recovery across mining and recycling sectors.

The company’s broader strategy includes silver recovery from photovoltaic solar panels using innovative Microwave Joule Heating Technology (MJHT) and Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE) methods, alongside lithium refinery projects in North America. These initiatives collectively target critical materials supply chain challenges amid surging demand for clean energy technologies.

LU7’s focus on integrating sustainable extraction technologies with lithium refining projects in Québec and Texas reflects a comprehensive approach to resource circularity and supply chain resilience. The company’s recent capital raise supports progression of these projects, including the Brownsville lithium refinery and metal recycling technologies.