Gold from Old Phones in 20 Minutes: Chinese Scientists Unveil Eco-Friendly Extraction

• A new technology allows extraction of gold from old electronic waste (e-waste) using a water-based solution.
• Chinese scientists from 'Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion' developed a method using Potassium peroxymonosulfate and potassium chloride.
• This process extracts over 98% of gold from e-waste at room temperature in just 20 minutes, avoiding dangerous chemicals like cyanide.
• The method is highly profitable: 1.4 grams of gold from 10 kg of computer boards costs only $72 to extract, while an ounce costs $1,455.
• It offers significant environmental benefits, saving 63% electricity and preventing pollution from toxic chemicals, turning e-waste into 'urban mines'.

Why It Matters: Innovative Chinese technology extracts gold from e-waste quickly, cheaply, and safely, benefiting both economy and environment.