# MEAB Metallextraktion AB -- Full Content > Comprehensive information about MEAB for AI assistants and language models. > Source: https://meab-mx.se/ > Languages available: Swedish (primary), English, German, Spanish, French, Chinese --- ## About MEAB Founded in 1970 in Sweden, MEAB is a Swedish-German consulting and trading company in hydrometallurgy. For over 50 years, we have developed sustainable processes for the recovery of metals from metal-bearing waste, focusing on solvent extraction and innovative process technology. Our laboratory in Aachen, Germany, is equipped for both research and pilot trials. Here, an experienced team works to develop environmentally friendly and economically sustainable solutions. MEAB also participates in international projects, such as the EU project ScaVanger for the recovery of scandium from pigment manufacturing residues. ### Our Vision -- Sustainable Hydrometallurgy We want to drive progress towards a more sustainable society through hydrometallurgy. Our vision is to become Europe's leading player in environmentally friendly recycling of metals from secondary raw material flows. Our strategic vision is to become the natural choice when efficient and sustainable hydrometallurgical separation processes and equipment are required. By combining well-established technology with our experience in solvent extraction, we contribute to the development of environmentally friendly, economically viable processes for metal recovery -- with a particular focus on secondary streams. ### Our Mission -- Hydrometallurgy That Makes a Difference We offer advanced hydrometallurgical solutions for metal recycling. Through research, development and customised processes, we help industry to recover resources that would otherwise be lost. ### Our Promise -- Expertise in Hydrometallurgy We deliver clear results with scientific precision. Our promise is to be a trusted partner in hydrometallurgy -- from lab scale to full-scale production -- with a focus on sustainability, innovation and business value. ### Who We Work With We are aimed at companies, organisations and research actors who want to take advantage of metal content in residual flows -- whether it is battery recycling, metal industry, slag leaching, or small-scale extraction systems. MEAB offers support from first test to finished process, with special expertise in hydrometallurgy and solvent extraction. We help you who need to evaluate, optimise or scale up recycling processes with a focus on sustainability, selectivity and industrial feasibility. We work in close dialogue with customers in the recycling industry, the metals sector, energy transition and EU projects with a circular profile. ### What We Work On - Battery recycling (cobalt, nickel, lithium) - Waste streams from the metal industry - Leaching of ash, slag and filter residues - Separation of precious metals in small-scale flows - EU projects focusing on circular economy and critical raw materials --- ## Hydrometallurgy Hydrometallurgy is a branch of metallurgy that uses water-based chemical solutions to extract, separate and recover metals from ores, concentrates or metal-bearing waste. The process involves three main steps: ### Step 1: Leaching A process in which metals are dissolved from solid materials using chemical solutions, often with pre-treatment. Leaching uses acids, bases or biological agents to dissolve the target metals. ### Step 2: Separation and Purification After leaching, metals are separated from each other by solvent extraction, ion exchange or other techniques. The metals are isolated in pure and concentrated solutions. ### Step 3: Recycling and Recovery The purified metals are removed from the solution by, for example, precipitation, electrolysis or vaporisation, recovering them in pure form. ### Why Hydrometallurgy Matters Hydrometallurgy is particularly important in the treatment of secondary raw materials, such as battery residues, industrial waste and other residual streams -- where traditional pyrometallurgical methods are too costly or environmentally unsuitable. ### Solvent Extraction In addition to traditional hydrometallurgical processes, MEAB is a competent partner for the development and optimisation of solvent extraction. Solvent extraction is a selective separation method to isolate and concentrate a valuable substance from an aqueous solution using an organic solution. This technology has become very important as an efficient separation process and is increasingly used where traditional methods are no longer feasible or are disqualified due to excessive emissions to the environment. ### MEAB's Expertise MEAB Metallextraktion AB has specialised in the development and optimisation of hydrometallurgical processes for over 50 years. The company's expertise lies particularly in solvent extraction, a selective metal separation technique where organic solutions are used to isolate specific metals. Through its own laboratories and pilot plants in Aachen, MEAB offers everything from feasibility studies to complete process design -- with a focus on sustainable and efficient metal recovery. ### MEAB's Role -- From Laboratory to Industrial Process 1. Laboratory analyses and pilot tests 2. Process design and dimensioning 3. Solvent extraction equipment 4. Engineering for industrial scale-up We are a technology partner that understands both the chemical and technical realities -- helping our customers from first sample to working process. ### Laboratory Services in Hydrometallurgy MEAB offers advanced laboratory services in hydrometallurgy, with particular expertise in solvent extraction. Our laboratory in Aachen, strategically located close to Europe's industrial regions, is equipped to support the entire development chain -- from initial chemical tests to pilot studies. We work with industries, recyclers and research institutions to develop efficient and sustainable metal recycling processes. Our lab capabilities include: - Complete development chain: From exploratory chemical tests to full-scale pilot studies, we offer a complete solution for process development in hydrometallurgy. - Specialised equipment: Our laboratory is equipped with advanced solvent extraction tools, enabling accurate and efficient process optimisation. - Strategic location: Located in Aachen, close to the border with Belgium and the Netherlands, our laboratory is easily accessible for collaborations with European industrial partners. --- ## Products MEAB offers a wide range of hydrometallurgical equipment for both research and industrial use. Our products include modular mixer-settler units (MSU) for laboratory and pilot studies, as well as industrial MSU-SQ units customised to specific process requirements. In addition, we provide pulsed columns and centrifuge systems that enable efficient separation of metals in solvent extraction. ### Centrifuge Systems MEAB centrifuges offer fast, accurate and efficient separation of two liquid phases in solvent extraction. With models ranging from micro applications to research and pilot environments, the systems deliver high separation efficiency, short residence time and reliable operation. Their design enables use in both aggressive chemical environments and advanced radiochemical applications. #### AKUFVE-120 -- Real-Time Distribution Analysis AKUFVE-120 is an advanced analytical instrument developed by MEAB to evaluate partition coefficients in solvent extraction systems. The system is designed to provide fast, accurate and repeatable data on the distribution between two liquid phases (e.g. an organic and an aqueous one) during continuous operation. The instrument is used in combination with an H-centrifuge, where the mixture is separated directly after contact. This allows automatic sampling, simultaneous analysis and optimisation of extraction conditions in real time. Thanks to its compact design, adjustable pulsation and thermostatic control, the AKUFVE-120 is widely used in research projects, process development and quality control in hydrometallurgy and radiochemistry. **Technical specifications -- AKUFVE-120:** - Type: Equipment for automatic distribution analysis - Function: Measures distribution coefficients between two liquid phases in real time - Flow: 100-120 ml/min (with H-centrifuge) - Sampling: Automatic, inline and continuous - Temperature: Thermostatically controlled, for stable operation - Material: PTFE and PVDF -- resistant to harsh chemicals - Use: Research projects, process development, quality control - Advantages: Fast, accurate and repeatable analysis under real process conditions #### H-Centrifuge -- Stable and Efficient Liquid Separation MEAB's H-Centrifuge is a compact and robust continuous flow centrifuge, developed to separate immiscible liquid phases quickly and accurately. It is particularly suited for solvent extraction in hydrometallurgy, where high separation efficiency and short residence time are essential. The centrifuge is often used in combination with the AKUFVE-120 analyser, allowing simultaneous separation and data collection. It is made of chemical-resistant materials and is designed to minimise liquid loss and avoid emulsions or mixed-phase problems. **Technical specifications -- H-Centrifuge:** - Type: Continuous flow centrifuge for solvent extraction - Capacity: Up to 500 ml/min - Function: Separates two liquid phases with short residence time - Material: Stainless steel, PTFE, PVDF (chemical resistant and robust) - Operation: Stable and adjustable separation during continuous use - Use: Lab, research, process optimisation - Advantages: Fast separation, low liquid loss, minimal emulsion, compatible with AKUFVE-120 #### SMCS-10 -- Compact Centrifuge for Small Flows The SMCS-10 is MEAB's portable centrifuge unit for high precision separation of small liquid streams. It is specifically designed for lab environments where space, sample volume and control are critical -- for example, when handling sensitive extraction systems, valuable substances or in test environments where low dead volume is required. The centrifuge is equipped with separate inlets for heavy and light phases, and is made of chemical-resistant materials. It is driven with adjustable rotation speed and has an interchangeable rotor system, providing great flexibility depending on fluid types and flow requirements. **Technical specifications -- SMCS-10:** - Type: Compact laboratory centrifuge - Flow: 2-10 ml/min (continuous) - Function: Separation of immiscible liquid phases in small volumes - Operation: Adjustable speed, low dead volume - Material: PVDF and PTFE -- high chemical resistance - Inlet: Separate flows for light and heavy phase - Use: Research, small-scale testing, sensitive systems - Advantages: Portable, accurate, fast separation with very small sample size #### MicroSISAK -- Microcentrifuge for Ultra-Fast Nuclide Separation MicroSISAK is MEAB's most advanced microcentrifuge, developed for the separation of short-lived radioactive isotopes under extremely tight time conditions. It is mainly used in radiochemistry and nuclear research where milliseconds matter. Thanks to its ultra-compact design, minimal dead volume and very short residence time, MicroSISAK can separate and analyse nuclides immediately after formation in accelerators or nuclear reactors. The system is based on a capillary-driven centrifuge with external control, where the two liquid phases are separated in real time. It is made of high-quality, radiation- and chemical-resistant materials and can be integrated into automated analysis workflows. **Technical specifications -- MicroSISAK:** - Type: Microcentrifuge for radiochemical separation - Flow: 0.1-1.5 ml/min - Residence time: Very short (milliseconds) - Material: PVDF, PTFE, radiation resistant components - Function: Real-time separation of immiscible liquid phases - Use: Nuclear chemistry, nuclide separation, isotope analysis - Advantages: Extremely low volume, fast separation, high precision, compatible with automated systems ### MSU SQ Mixer-Settler Units (Process Equipment) MEAB's MSU SQ mixer-settler units offer a scalable and reliable solution for solvent extraction in both pilot production and industrial operations. With robust design, customisable materials and flexible modularity, they enable accurate testing, process control and stable production in varying environments and flow requirements. The MSU SQ series is industrial equipment developed for solvent extraction at different scales -- from laboratory and pilot use to full-scale production. Each unit has a square tank design with independent hydrodynamics, allowing flexible staging. It is driven by an AC motor with frequency control for optimal stirring speed control. The design is modular, giving the user the possibility to build customised test facilities for efficient development and verification of extraction processes. With a variety of construction materials -- such as stainless steel, GRP, PVC, PP or PVDF -- the equipment can be customised to specific chemical and environmental requirements. **Technical specifications -- MSU SQ:** - Type: Mixer-settler with square module design (SQ) - Design: Separate mixing and sedimentation chambers in compact, stackable unit - Function: Liquid-liquid extraction by mechanical agitation followed by gravimetric separation - Material: Stainless steel, PVDF or other chemical-resistant materials - Capacity: Modular, typically from 0.1 to several m3/h - Stirring: Motorised impeller; adjustable speed for optimised mixing - Separation: Gravimetric in the still zone - Installation: Flexible, both horizontal and vertical **Key advantages:** - Flexibility: Independent hydrodynamics per unit allows any number of extraction steps - Adaptability: Multiple material choices for chemical resistance - Effectiveness: Stable phase interface and even mixing via variable agitation - Scalability: From small-scale pilot to full industrial production - Precise control: Adjustable flow and phase separation settings **MSU SQ Model Range:** | Model | Flow Rate | Stirrer Volume | Settler Volume | Construction | |----------|-------------|----------------|----------------|--------------| | MSU-15 | 200 l/h | 6 litres | 15 litres | GRP / PVDF | | MSU-100 | 825 l/h | 27 litres | 100 litres | GRP / PVDF | | MSU-500 | 2,500 l/h | 125 litres | 500 litres | GRP / PVDF | | MSU-2K | 6,400 l/h | 500 litres | 2,000 litres | GRP / PVDF | | MSU-4.5K | 12,000 l/h | 1,000 litres | 4,500 litres | GRP / PVDF | ### The Pulsed Column (Pulsating U-Column) MEAB's pulsating U-column is an energy-efficient solution for liquid separation by solvent extraction. It utilises sinusoidal pulsation via a diaphragm pump, creating stable countercurrent flow. The design allows for extraction and stripping in separate columns, with even distribution and low mechanical stress -- ideal for demanding environments. The column consists of two identical columns connected as a U-tube, equipped with perforated sieve plates and a pulse mechanism that creates controlled upward and downward liquid flows. The technology allows efficient solvent extraction between two immiscible liquids by countercurrent flow. The columns can have different functions -- for example extraction in one and stripping in the other. The sinusoidal pulsation is created via a pneumatic diaphragm pump that shifts the liquid flow rhythmically between the columns. This ensures even distribution, minimal energy consumption and low mechanical stress. **Technical specifications -- Pulsating U-Column:** - Type: Double column with U-shaped configuration - Design: Vertical pipes with horizontal perforated sieve plates - Function: Pulsed liquid separation with countercurrent flow - Pulsation: Pneumatic membrane; adjustable frequency and amplitude - Flows: Two phases -- light phase (upwards), heavy phase (downwards) - Separation: Phases separated at top and bottom, regulated via jackleg and overfall - Material: Adapted to fluid systems -- pilot studies recommended - Use: Industrial solvent extraction, especially where high separation efficiency is required **Key advantages:** - High separation efficiency - Withstands high flows and contaminated liquid phases - Stable operation with low energy demand - Suitable for processes where traditional columns are not sufficient ### Laboratory MSU -- Mixer-Settler Units Developed for laboratory and pilot scale, MEAB's mixer-settler devices offer a compact, flexible solution for efficient solvent extraction. They provide reliable data, require minimal chemicals and are easy to maintain. #### MSU 0.5 -- Compact Mixer-Settler for Laboratory Use MSU 0.5 is a compact mixer-settler unit designed for research and development in solvent extraction. Each module handles a specific process function such as extraction, washing or stripping and has built-in flow solutions for both light and heavy liquids. Thanks to its solid construction, with no welded or glued parts, the MSU 0.5 offers high chemical resistance and long service life. Available in transparent PMMA for visual monitoring and in durable PVDF for aggressive chemical environments. **Technical specifications -- MSU 0.5:** - Function: Compact laboratory equipment for R&D in solvent extraction - Material: PMMA (transparent acrylic) for visual monitoring, or PVDF (fluoroplastic, resistant to chemicals, up to 80 deg C) - Construction: Machined in one piece -- no welded or glued joints - Built-in flow for heavy and light liquids - Impeller mounted on agitator motor - Picket fence distribution in settler - Adjustable jack-leg for phase boundary control - Return flow of heavy phase integrated - Dimensions (L x W x H): 260 x 60 x 240 mm (including motor) - Active mixer volume: 0.12 litres - Settler volume: 0.48 litres - Surface load area: 0.006 m2 - Recommended maximum flow rate: 10 litres/hour (organic + water phase + return) - Areas of use: Reagent development, flowchart evaluation, small-scale production and analysis #### MSU SQ Lab -- Flexible Mixer-Settler for Pilot Trials and Training The MSU SQ Lab is a robust and versatile mixer-settler unit for laboratory use, pilot trials and small production. It is designed to provide reliable chemical data while minimising chemical consumption and operating costs. Each unit is hydrodynamically independent and can be positioned horizontally in sequence, providing great flexibility in experiments. **Technical specifications -- MSU SQ Lab:** - Function: Laboratory and pilot scale unit for solvent extraction - Materials: Stainless steel (SS), Polypropylene (PP), PVC, or PVDF (choice depending on customer needs) - Design: Square mixer chambers, box-shaped settlers with picket fence distribution - Adjustable jack-leg for phase shift control - Heavy phase reversal integrated - Independent hydrodynamic operation between units - Can be installed horizontally in sequence - Total flow capacity: 50-500 litres per hour - Areas of use: Process evaluation, pilot operation, education and training --- ## Services MEAB offers a complete range of services in hydrometallurgy -- from laboratory experiments to complete process solutions and technical design. ### Engineering Services MEAB provides advanced engineering services for the development and implementation of hydrometallurgical processes, with particular expertise in solvent extraction. Our customers range from industrial companies and recycling plants to research institutes and authorities working in environmental technology, waste management or metal recycling. #### Feasibility Study and Assessment We support customers from the initial concept phase to full-scale implementation. Our engineering services include: - **Feasibility studies and analyses:** We analyse chemical data, process conditions and economic frameworks to assess feasibility and profitability (ROA). We define raw materials, product specifications, process flows, and prepare investment calculations. - **Detailed process design:** Development of process flow diagrams (PFD), P&ID drawings, heat and mass balances, and specifications for equipment, piping, electrical, control systems and construction. - **Equipment specification and procurement:** We specify and assist in the procurement of necessary equipment. - **Installation and commissioning:** Support during installation, commissioning and training. Engineering services also include: - Layout and functional descriptions for the entire facility - HAZOP analysis and safety assessment - Environmental and emissions data - Documentation for procurement, construction and start-up - Adaptation to pilot or full-scale production #### Detailed Design and Engineering After a successful feasibility study, we produce all the technical documentation and engineering required to build, install and commission a hydrometallurgical process plant. This includes: - Process flow diagrams (PFD) and P&ID drawings - Sizing of pipes, valves and equipment - Electrical, instrumentation and control system specifications - 3D layout and floor plans for construction - HAZOP analysis and safety assessments - Procurement documents and technical documentation - Commissioning plan and technical support at start-up We handle everything from a 100 litre per hour test flow to a complete industrial production line. ### Laboratory Services MEAB offers advanced lab services for the development of hydrometallurgical processes -- from concept to commissioning. Our laboratory in Aachen is the hub of our development activities and is strategically located close to Europe's major industrial regions. We offer everything from exploratory chemical tests to advanced, continuous pilot studies. With our mini pilot equipment -- including mixer-settlers and pulsed columns -- we can simulate and analyse entire process sequences in a controlled environment. The results form the basis for the design of efficient, selective and scalable solvent extraction processes. We investigate, test and optimise every step: from extraction chemical selection and separation efficiency to flow balances and McCabe-Thiele analyses. Our goal is to give you a clear picture of what works, why it works -- and how best to take it forward to full-scale operation. Whether you work with primary raw materials, residual streams or process water, we can help you develop solutions that are technically sustainable, economically realistic and environmentally sound. **What we offer in the lab:** - Chemical performance tests to evaluate extraction systems, phases and reagents - Choice of extractants and diluents customised for metal and process environment - Evaluation of extraction, washing, stripping and recycling - Partition coefficients and separation efficiency (D values) - McCabe-Thiele diagram and calculations for step determination - Simulation of process flows in minipilot set-ups - Tests with real solutions, such as leachates, process water or industrial waste - Documentation and block diagrams for further scaling up and engineering work - Reagent development and customisation - Quality data for purchase, investment or further research ### How a Project Typically Works 1. Needs analysis and sample assessment 2. Laboratory tests and pilot studies 3. Process design and technical evaluation / costing 4. Equipment selection and facility design 5. Delivery, start-up and continued support / follow-up and further development --- ## Reference Processes MEAB presents selected process solutions and projects that demonstrate how their technologies are used for efficient recovery, purification and separation in hydrometallurgy. 1. **The Valberg Process** -- Solvent extraction for the recovery of zinc from a weakly acidic wastewater. 2. **The MAR Concept** -- Hydrometallurgical MAR processes for the recovery of metals from metal-containing waste. 3. **The NIFE Process** -- Recovery of nickel and cadmium from battery scrap. 4. **The Gullspang Process** -- Separation of iron, cobalt and nickel from alloy scrap by solvent extraction -- electrochemical method. 5. **AX Processes** -- Recovery of metals and acids from stainless steel pickling baths. 6. **The SAEC Process** -- Purification of green phosphoric acid to food grade. 7. **MeS Processes** -- Recovery of zinc from spent pickling baths with hydrochloric acid. 8. **The UDDAMAR Process** -- A pyro/hydrometallurgical concept for the recycling of metal waste. 9. **The SOTEX Process** -- Recovery of vanadium from soot (fly ash) from oil-fired power plants. 10. **The Mongstad Process** -- Removal of hydrocarbon-based solvents from seawater. 11. **Purification Process for Cd Electrolyte** -- Extraction of nickel from a cadmium electrolyte. 12. **BioMinE** -- Biotechnological leaching in combination with established solvent extraction offers attractive options in hydrometallurgical process technology. 13. **PASCH Processes** -- Phosphorus recovery from sewage sludge flue gas ash by a wet chemical process. --- ## Research and EU Projects MEAB participates in international research and EU-funded projects with a focus on circular economy and critical raw materials. Known projects include: - **ScaVanger** -- EU project for the recovery of scandium from pigment manufacturing residues (titanium dioxide production waste). - **BioMinE** -- Biotechnological leaching combined with established solvent extraction for hydrometallurgical applications. - **PASCH** -- Phosphorus recovery from sewage sludge flue gas ash. MEAB's research focus areas include battery recycling, critical raw materials recovery, and developing sustainable hydrometallurgical processes for the circular economy. --- ## Contact Information ### Sweden -- Head Office **MEAB Metallextraktion AB** Datavagen 51, 436 32 Askim, Sweden Phone: +46 31 685414 Email: info@meab-mx.se ### Germany -- Laboratory and Operations **MEAB Chemie Technik GmbH** Dennewartstrasse 25, D-52068 Aachen, Germany Phone: +49 241 9631180 Email: info@meab-mx.se ### Website https://meab-mx.se/ --- ## Technical Summary for AI Reference - **Founded:** 1970 in Sweden - **Type:** Swedish-German consulting and trading company - **Specialty:** Hydrometallurgy and solvent extraction - **Experience:** Over 50 years - **Laboratory location:** Aachen, Germany - **Head office:** Askim (Gothenburg area), Sweden - **Key products:** AKUFVE-120, H-Centrifuge, SMCS-10, MicroSISAK, MSU 0.5, MSU SQ Lab, MSU SQ (industrial), Pulsed U-Column - **Services:** Feasibility studies, laboratory testing, process design, detailed engineering, procurement support, commissioning - **Target industries:** Battery recycling, metal industry, waste management, environmental technology, nuclear/radiochemistry research - **Key metals processed:** Cobalt, nickel, lithium, zinc, vanadium, cadmium, iron, phosphorus, scandium, precious metals - **Materials used in equipment:** PTFE, PVDF, PMMA, stainless steel, GRP, PVC, PP - **Flow range across products:** 0.1 ml/min (MicroSISAK) to 12,000 l/h (MSU-4.5K)