Development of a Microfluidic Platform for REEs”; Granted Support under TÜBİTAK – 1001 Program

3D printing technology is a series of manufacturing processes that create a physical model from digitized data, first separate into virtual layers and then overprint any complex object with high precision. Today, thanks to 3D printing, it is possible to develop high-precision detection systems by combining them with molecular recognition technology. Taking the biomedical sector as an example, by applying microfluidic Lab-on-chip technology in Mining and Earth Sciences in our proposed project, a millifluid with continuous flow will analyze the Rare Earth Elements (REE), which is one of the critical raw materials of global strategic importance in our country and in the World. In addition, by considering the sensor structure with the "REE facility on a chip" approach, we aim to solve the difficulties in terms of time and acid consumption in the purification of REEs with microchips that we will produce in 3D printers.

By constructing millichannels with patterned surfaces, the desired processes can be developed in a variety of applications and are being supported by a variety of nanomaterials. When our goal is achieved, the detection and subsequent separation of REEs will be easier, and it will be possible to encourage REEs as an alternative to fossil fuels that pose problems for sustainable development. This project will pave the way for the development of mineral processing and environmental technologies with local REEs.