Germanium keeps the world connected, enabling high-efficiency solar cells for space missions, optical fiber networks, and gamma ray detectors. It also plays a role in infrared optics facilitating thermal imaging, and night vision. Umicore recycles germanium from production scrap and complex waste streams. We use our closed-loop approach to secure a sustainable supply and support the circular economy.
Germanium sourcing, refining and recycling
At Umicore, we secure germanium through a globally diversified sustainable sourcing strategy, ensuring resilience and flexibility in our supply chain. Our state-of-the-art refining technologies enable us to extract ultra-pure germanium from a wide range of feedstocks with exceptional efficiency. Aligned with our commitment to circularity, we uphold a robust closed-loop model. Today, more than half of our germanium supply originates from recycled materials.
Our customers benefit at every stage of our sourcing, refining and recycling solutions through our:
- sustainable solutions for germanium-containing recycling streams
- cutting-edge R&D to meet current and future recycling needs
- on-site technical and scientific support
- in-house sampling and analysis for efficient results
- extensive knowledge of transport logistics and regulatory compliance
- material treatment that meets the highest EHS standards
- quick turnaround times and competitive purchase and tolling rates
