EcinRaw – Electroactive carbon fibers for intelligent recycling of raw materials
The project aims to improve the current wastewater treatment methods by innovative strategies to handle metal containing water streams, for efficient recovery of critical raw materials (CRM).

ECINRAW addresses the urgent need for sustainable and circular approaches to mineral resource recovery. The project develops and applies electrically conductive carbon fiber electrodes for the selective extraction and recovery of critical raw materials (CRMs) from mining waste, industrial wastewater, and battery leachates.
By transforming carbon fibers into electrochemically active materials, ECINRAW enables energy-efficient metal deposition and recovery, reducing environmental impact while turning waste into valuable resources. Special focus is placed on gold, nickel, cobalt, and other CRM elements, aligning with national and EU-level priorities for green technologies and supply security.
ECINRAW contributes directly to four UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
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SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
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SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
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SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
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SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
The project exemplifies a waste-to-wealth model by closing the loop between resource extraction, wastewater treatment, and raw material recovery.
From Lab to Pilot Scale
A successful transferring knowledge from a lab-scale (KTH) to a small pilot scale (IVL), with related industrial and institutional partners feedback, will increase / improve the mineral waste recycling and provide CRM supplement to meet the goals of Agenda 2030.
Challanges a & Key Innovations
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Demonstrated recovery of metals in low-concentration, high-complexity solutions
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Modular electrochemical systems adaptable to diverse industrial waste streams
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Integration with existing water purification and mining infrastructure
The project is funded by the Vinnova (2021.11- 2024.11).