TriFluorium (Tribo-Reactor for fluorine circularity by urban mining) is developing an innovative way to recover fluorine from waste materials containing organofluorine compounds, made up of carbon and fluorine. The recovered fluorine will be converted by means of tribolysis, a mechanochemical process, into safe, versatile inorganic fluoride products. These include the mineral fluorspar, a critical raw material used in steel and iron making, refrigeration and air conditioning, aluminium making, cookware and cable insulation – and plenty of other fields as well.

Fluoropolymers are fluorocarbon-based plastics - Teflon® is one example. They are non-stick, resistant to chemicals, electrical charges and solvents, and can cope with very high and low temperatures. This means that they are widely used: they play a critical role in sectors such as semiconductors, hydrogen production, fuel cells and electric vehicles. However, their exceptional stability also makes them particularly challenging to recycle. Developing effective recycling solutions is therefore key for reducing waste and strengthening the security of Europe's fluorine supply. 

To address this challenge, TriFluorium is establishing the scientific and technological foundations for a novel tribolytic approach capable of treating highly stable organofluorine waste streams. Using a dedicated preparative-scale Tribo-Reactor, the project aims to demonstrate a robust, energy-efficient and safe process for transforming fluorinated waste into valuable secondary raw materials. 

Beyond technological innovation, TriFluorium contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals by supporting resource efficiency, reducing environmental pressures, and strengthening Europe's resilience through more sustainable use of fluorine resources.

The project began in February 2025 and will run until January 2029. Want to know more about it? Sign up for their newsletter!