Transforming metal extraction: Dr. Emmanuel Oke pioneers sustainable innovations in Hydrometallurgy

In a world striving for sustainability, Dr. Emmanuel Oke has emerged as a trailblazer in revolutionizing metal extraction technologies.

As a postdoctoral research fellow in the Sustainable and Innovative Minerals and Metals Extraction Technology (SIMMET) research group at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Dr. Oke’s groundbreaking work is redefining the future of hydrometallurgy.

Dr. Oke’s innovative research on concurrent leaching technique for copper (Cu) and cobalt (Co) ores, particularly those sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has set a new benchmark in the field. Published in Minerals Engineering in 2024, his study explores the use of sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide combined with biodegradable organic acids such as citric and oxalic acids. “This sustainable approach has achieved unprecedented leaching efficiencies” he stated.

Speaking to journalists, Dr. Oke said, “We aim to transition from traditional methods that often harm the environment to more sustainable and efficient solutions.”

By integrating experimental methods with mathematical models like the Shrinking Core Model (SCM), Dr. Oke’s work provides valuable insights into the kinetics of metal dissolution. His meticulous research employs cutting-edge analytical tools, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), ensuring precision and innovation at every stage.

Championing sustainability
At the core of Dr. Oke’s research is a commitment to sustainability. His use of biodegradable organic acids reduces the environmental impact of traditional metal extraction processes and enhances metal recovery yields. These green solvents offer an eco-friendly alternative to conventional leaching agents, aligning perfectly with global efforts to combat environmental degradation and promote sustainable industrial practices.

“By integrating green chemistry principles, we can revolutionize the way metals are extracted and recovered, ensuring a balance between industrial needs and environmental conservation,” Dr. Oke emphasized.

Dr. Oke’s contributions to sustainability have been recognized at global conferences, including the 2024 Hydrometallurgy for the Future conference in Stellenbosch, South Africa, where he presented his work on leaching kinetics and green solvent systems.

Mentorship and leadership
Beyond research, Dr. Oke is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of scientists. He has co-supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate projects, guiding students in areas such as resource recovery, novel solvent systems, and leaching kinetics.

Among his mentees, standout contributions include Fortune Mondlane and Noluthando Skosana’s studies on Cu-Co ore leaching kinetics, as well as Clement Moukangwe and Inayat Momade Aly’s advancements in titanium separation and tin recovery.

“Mentoring is more than offering guidance; it is about empowering the next generation of researchers to think critically and innovatively,” Dr. Oke said.

Accolades and expertise
A recipient of The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Postdoctoral Fellowship and one of 29 centennial postdoctoral fellows selected by the University of the Witwatersrand in 2023, Dr. Oke’s expertise extends to separation science, green solvent synthesis, and environmental conservation. He earned his PhD in Chemistry from Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, India, in 2023, an MSc in Environmental Chemistry from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, in 2015, and a Bachelor of Technology in Science Laboratory Technology from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Nigeria, in 2011.

As a peer reviewer for leading journals and a prominent voice in environmental and analytical chemistry, Dr. Oke continues to influence the global research landscape.

Looking ahead, Dr. Oke plans to explore sequential leaching processes and investigate the impact of particle size reduction on leaching efficiencies. This is addition to the metal recovery using ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents. His vision for the future combines scientific innovation with a deep commitment to sustainability.

“The future of metal extraction lies in our ability to innovate responsibly,” he reflects. “By combining scientific ingenuity with a commitment to sustainability, we can create solutions that benefit both industry and the planet.”

Dr. Emmanuel Oke shared his plans to bring cutting-edge hydrometallurgical techniques to Nigeria. “My goal is to apply sustainable technologies like the utilization of organic acids, ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents to recover valuable metals from e-waste and ores,” he said. “This will address environmental challenges while boosting our industrial capacity for resource recovery.” Dr. Oke added, “Through local collaborations, I aim to establish Nigeria as a leader in green chemistry and sustainable metal recycling in Africa.”

Dr. Emmanuel Oke’s transformative work exemplifies the power of science to address global challenges. As his research continues to break new ground, his legacy as a pioneer in sustainable hydrometallurgy will inspire generations to come.