METALLICO Young Researchers: Nicole Lima Fermin

Recovering valuable raw materials, demonstrating sustainable production or developing innovative technologies: Many young researchers are doing their part to achieve the goals of the METALLICO project. They are highly motivated and passionate about their work. One of our "METALLICO Young Researchers" is Nicole Lima Fermin. She works as a Research Assistant at the Systems Engineering for Water and Wastewater department at Fraunhofer-Institut für Keramische Technologien und Systeme IKTS. Currently, she is focusing on the production of geopolymers from the leaching residue generated in the COOL+ process, studying how these residues can be transformed into durable, low-carbon construction materials while ensuring good mechanical performance and environmental safety.

What is your motivation and what excites you the most about your work?

I am motivated by the opportunity to learn something new every day while contributing to environmental sustainability through impact mitigation and circular economy strategies. Exploring innovative processes, testing fresh ideas, and gaining new skills keeps my work exciting. Knowing that these efforts reduce waste, optimise resource recovery, and minimise ecological footprints drives me to keep improving.

Which impact do you think your research will have on the future? What do you hope to achieve with your research?

My research contributes to a circular economy by recovering metals essential for renewable energy technologies and advanced electronics. By optimising extraction methods and minimising chemical use, I hope to help Europe secure a more resilient supply of critical raw materials while lowering the ecological footprint of metal production.

What opportunities does the research project METALLICO offer you as a young researcher in your early career?

METALLICO allows me to collaborate with experts across Europe, from mineralogy to industrial scaling, which is invaluable for a young researcher. The project offers access to cutting-edge pilot facilities, mentorship from senior scientists, and international networking that strengthens both my technical expertise and my professional development.

What is the best thing about your job as a scientist in the METALLICO project? Can you tell us a funny/interesting story from your day-to-day research?

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing how laboratory results evolve into the design and construction of a pilot plant. Contributing to the scale-up from bench experiments to a fully built facility, and then witnessing the pilot plant in operation, brings a strong sense of accomplishment and shows the real impact of our research.

Find Nicole on LinkdIn!