The SOLVOMET group is the laboratory of metallurgical chemistry in the Department of Chemistry of KU Leuven and is led by Prof. Koen Binnemans. SOLVOMET’s vision is that metallurgical chemistry expertise allows to develop circular hydrometallurgical processes to provide the metals that are needed for the transition to a climate-neutral society. SOLVOMET’s dual mission is (1) to perform excellent research in metallurgical chemistry & solvent extraction, while training young researchers in these domains and (2) to support companies worldwide in the development of (solvent extraction-based) circular hydrometallurgical processes and to provide training in solvent extraction.
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Project
Within the SOLVOMET group of KU Leuven, a PhD student will be hired to work on and ambitious research project, focusing on innovative solutions for CO2 capture and utilization in hydrometallurgical processes. Rising global CO2 emissions and the urgent need for sustainable technologies drive the development of new approaches that not only capture CO2, but also convert it into valuable products. In this project, we explore mineral carbonation, a process in which CO2 reacts with metal-containing streams to form stable and valuable carbonate materials. These products have applications in sectors such as construction materials, polymers, and advanced functional materials. The project introduces a novel concept by integrating mineral carbonation with solvent extraction, creating a more efficient and circular approach to metal processing and CO2 utilization.
The research will centre on understanding and developing new strategies to combine mineral carbonation and solvent extraction. The work includes:
- Designing and studying novel solvent systems that enable efficient conversion of metal-containing solutions into carbonate products using CO2
- Investigating carbonation processes in both aqueous and organic phases, including innovative routes where CO2 directly drives metal recovery and precipitation
- Exploring how these processes can reduce chemical consumption
- Developing and applying a thermodynamic model to describe and predict the behaviour of complex multi-phase systems involving CO2
- Contributing to the integration of individual process steps into a broader process concept
- Collaborating closely with project partners working on process intensification and reactor development
The work will combine experimental research with modelling, offering a balance between fundamental understanding and process-oriented innovation.
The PhD student will be supervised by Prof. Koen Binnemans and Prof. Tom Van Gerven, and will work in the SOLVOMET group.
Profile
We are looking for a highly motivated and talented candidate who meets the following requirements:
- You hold a Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a closely related field
- You have a strong interest in sustainable technologies, separation processes, or CO2 utilization
- You have a passion for science and technology
- You enjoy both experimental laboratory work and modelling activities
- You are able to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research team
- You have good communication skills in English (written and spoken)
- Experience with areas such as hydrometallurgy, solvent extraction, or thermodynamic modelling is an asset, but not required.
Offer
- A fully funded 4-year PhD position at KU Leuven
- A stimulating international research environment within a leading research group in metallurgical chemistry
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure and modelling tools
- Opportunities to present your work at international conferences and to build an academic and industrial network
- A comprehensive doctoral training programme within the Arenberg Doctoral School
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. dr. Koen Binnemans, mail: [email protected].
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
