Core Viewpoint - A research team from the University of Leicester has developed an efficient method using acoustic technology to separate materials, enabling effective recovery of fuel cells and critical resources like precious metals while preventing harmful chemicals from entering the environment, thus providing a new pathway for sustainable development in clean energy [1]. Group 1: Fuel Cell Recovery - Fuel cells and electrolyzers are essential components of hydrogen energy systems, widely used in vehicles such as cars, trains, and buses, with catalyst-coated membranes (CCM) containing expensive platinum group metals [1]. - The membranes also include per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as "forever chemicals," which are difficult to degrade and can contaminate drinking water if not handled properly [1]. - Traditional recycling methods struggle to efficiently separate PFAS membranes from CCM due to their strong adhesion, limiting the circular use of fuel cells [1]. Group 2: Innovative Recovery Strategy - The research team proposed an innovative recovery strategy that involves soaking materials in organic solvents followed by water ultrasonic treatment, successfully achieving effective separation of PFAS membranes from precious metals [1]. - This method is simple to operate, highly scalable, and does not require the use of corrosive chemicals, significantly reducing environmental pollution risks [1]. - The researchers believe this will revolutionize fuel cell recycling and promote the circular use of platinum group metals, thereby lowering the costs of clean energy technologies [1]. Group 3: Continuous Layering Process - Building on this, the research team developed a continuous layering process using a custom blade-type ultrasonic generator that creates tiny bubbles under high-frequency ultrasound [2]. - These bubbles burst under high pressure, releasing valuable catalysts from materials within seconds, and the entire process is completed at room temperature, making it energy-efficient and environmentally friendly [2]. - This innovation not only enhances recovery efficiency but also lays the groundwork for large-scale industrial applications, with potential use in the hydrogen energy industry for sustainable resource management and environmental processing, contributing to a truly green energy system [2].