This paper reports the design and preparation of a poly(ionic liquid)-derived porous organic polycarbene adsorbent for efficient gold capture. The adsorbent, utilizing carbene sites as a "nanotrap," exhibits an ultrahigh gold recovery capacity of 2.09 g/g and a 99.8% recovery efficiency from electronic waste solutions. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy reveal the formation of robust metal-carbene bonds and the reduction of gold ions into nanoparticles. Density functional theory calculations support the energetically favorable multinuclear Au binding. Life cycle assessment and cost analysis suggest potential for industrial-scale production. This research highlights porous organic polycarbenes as a promising material for precious metal recovery.
