As part of the first batch of strategic projects under the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act the European Commission selected two Belgian projects, both from Umicore’s Electro-Optic Materials business unit confirming Umicore’s leadership in germanium refining and recycling. These two projects are the only germanium-related projects selected by the EU Commission.
Germanium is strategic due to its critical role in advanced technologies like fiber optics and electronics. As one of the largest producers and recyclers of germanium outside China, Umicore is globally recognized for sustainability and has strong partnerships with European agencies and research institutes, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and sustainability.
One of the selected projects focuses on process innovation to increase germanium recovery yields from existing feed as well as developing new recycling technologies for new complex waste streams. The other project focuses on innovation by industrializing new technology to reduce net germanium consumption in its production of germanium substrates, used for instance in solar power generation for satellites.
The EU’s selection of both projects means they stand to benefit from streamlined and predictable permitting procedures, reducing administrative burdens, and receive dedicated support in gaining access to finance, making it easier to secure funding.
Background on Umicore’s germanium recycling:
For many years now Umicore’s sourcing strategy has focused on a) closing the loop, through the recycling and recovery of about 20 non-ferrous metals, including germanium b) on global diversification of our feeds; and c) on innovation and sustainability. This strategy reduces the net use of non-ferrous metals such as germanium and reduces the dependence of Umicore and of its customers on primary supplies, allowing for supply security to our customer base.
We recycle germanium in Olen, Belgium, and in the U.S.. Umicore is one of few companies capable of recycling germanium from different streams and we derive more than 50 percent of our germanium supply needs from secondary sources and last year announced a partnership with STL/Gecamines in DRC.
Umicore sources primary germanium from waste streams of the zinc industry. Secondary germanium is sourced from production scrap and waste streams from various industries such as fiber optics, solar cells and infrared optics.
