Near-zero-waste processing of low-grade, complex primary ores and secondary raw materials in Europe: technology development trends

With an increasing number of low-grade primary ores starting to be cog-effectively mined, we are at the verge of mining a myriad of low-grade primary and secondary mineral materials. At the same time, mining practices and mineral waste recycling are both evolving towards sustainable near-zero-waste processing of low-grade resources within a circular economy that requires a shift in business models, policies and improvements in process technologies. This review discusses the evolution towards low-grade primary ore and secondary raw material mining that will allow for sufficient supply of critical raw materials as well as base metals. Seven low-grade ores, including primary (Greek and Polish laterites) and secondary (fayalitic slags, jarosite and goethite sludges, zincrich waste treatment sludge and chromium-rich neutralisation sludge) raw materials are discussed as typical examples for Europe. In order to treat diverse and complex low-grade ores efficiently, the use of a new metallurgical systems toolbox is proposed, which is populated with existing and innovative unit operations: (i) mineral processing, (ii) metal extraction, (iii) metal recovery and (iv) matrix valorisation. Several promising novel techniques are under development for these four unit-operations. From an economical and environmental point of view, such processes must be fitted into new (circular) business models, whereby impacts and costs are divided over the entire value chain. Currently, low-grade secondary raw material processing is only economic and environmentally beneficial when the mineral residues can be valorised and landfill costs are avoided and/or incentives for waste processing can be taken into account

Assessment of Alkali Activation Potential of a Polish Ferronickel Slag

In this study, the alkali activation potential of a Polish ferronickel slag (PS), for the production of inorganic polymers (IPs), is investigated. The effect of the main synthesis parameters, i.e., strength of the activating solution, consisting of NaOH and Na2SiO3 solutions and affecting (SiO2 + Al2O3)/Na2O and other important molar ratios in the reactive paste, pre-curing period, curing temperature and time and ageing period was investigated. The structural integrity of the produced specimens was tested after their (i) immersion in distilled water and acidic solutions for a period of 7–30 days, and (ii) firing at temperatures between 200 °C and 1000 °C. Several analytical techniques including X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Differential scanning analysis-Thermogravimetry and Scanning Electron Microscopy were used for the characterization of the produced IPs. Results show that under the optimum synthesis conditions the IPs obtain compressive strength that exceeds 65 MPa. An innovative aspect of this study is that after heating at 400 °C, the specimens acquire compressive strength of 115 MPa and this indicates that they can be also used as fire resistant materials. This study highlights the potential of alkali activation for the valorization of a ferronickel slag and the production of IPs that can be used as binders or in several construction applications, thus improving the sustainability of the metallurgical sector

Advancing surface safety: the role of sol-gel nanocoatings in the context of MIRIA European project

International audienceAmong the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, significant efforts have been undertaken to develop antimicrobial/antiviral surfaces by exploiting coating solutions. In this article, we review the actions undertaken by the EU project MIRIA, the main one being the reduction of pathogen transmission on high-traffic surfaces in public and healthcare environments. The project implements several synergies from key antimicrobial/antiviral element selection to the grafting of complex-shaped surfaces. The focus is given to one of the project’s key strategies: the adoption of sol-gel technology, known for its efficiency in creating versatile, cost-effective coatings suitable for a wide range of substrates. The project rigorously tests the coatings in simulated environments, such as operating theatres, ensuring their effectiveness and safety. This includes comprehensive durability testing against environmental, chemical, and mechanical stresses, guaranteeing the coatings’ long-term functionality. MIRIA’s validation process encompasses antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral testing in line with international standards, confirming their broad-spectrum pathogen resistance. Along with this overview, the impact of the initiative is elucidated, extending beyond healthcare, enhancing public health, creating safer living, and working environments, and reducing economic losses due to illness. To this, the MIRIA project is expected to significantly contribute to the European research and innovation in antimicrobial coatings, addressing challenges like scalability and efficacy against various pathogens. The emphasis on sustainable synthesis, including bio-based materials which align with ecological goals, positions MIRIA as a pivotal initiative in enhancing health safety standards and resilience across Europe

Assessment of alkali activation potential of a Polish ferronickel slag

Research paperSummarization: In this study, the alkali activation potential of a Polish ferronickel slag (PS), for the production of inorganic polymers (IPs), is investigated. The effect of the main synthesis parameters, i.e., strength of the activating solution, consisting of NaOH and Na2SiO3 solutions and affecting (SiO2 + Al2O3)/Na2O and other important molar ratios in the reactive paste, pre-curing period, curing temperature and time and ageing period was investigated. The structural integrity of the produced specimens was tested after their (i) immersion in distilled water and acidic solutions for a period of 7–30 days, and (ii) firing at temperatures between 200 C and 1000 C. Several analytical techniques including X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Differential scanning analysis-Thermogravimetry and Scanning Electron Microscopy were used for the characterization of the produced IPs. Results show that under the optimum synthesis conditions the IPs obtain compressive strength that exceeds 65 MPa. An innovative aspect of this study is that after heating at 400 C, the specimens acquire compressive strength of 115 MPa and this indicates that they can be also used as fire resistant materials. This study highlights the potential of alkali activation for the valorization of a ferronickel slag and the production of IPs that can be used as binders or in several construction applications, thus improving the sustainability of the metallurgical sector.Presented on: Sustainabilit

Near-zero-waste processing of low-grade, complex primary ores and secondary raw materials in Europe: technology development trends

status: publishe

Near-zero-waste processing of low-grade, complex primary ores and secondary raw materials in Europe: technology development trends

Summarization: With an increasing number of low-grade primary ores starting to be cost-effectively mined, we are at the verge of mining a myriad of low-grade primary and secondary mineral materials. At the same time, mining practices and mineral waste recycling are both evolving towards sustainable near-zero-waste processing of low-grade resources within a circular economy that requires a shift in business models, policies and improvements in process technologies. This review discusses the evolution towards low-grade primary ore and secondary raw material mining that will allow for sufficient supply of critical raw materials as well as base metals. Seven low-grade ores, including primary (Greek and Polish laterites) and secondary (fayalitic slags, jarosite and goethite sludges, zinc rich waste treatment sludge and chromium-rich neutralisation sludge) raw materials are discussed as typical examples for Europe. In order to treat diverse and complex low-grade ores efficiently, the use of a new metallurgical systems toolbox is proposed, which is populated with existing and innovative unit operations: (i) mineral processing, (ii) metal extraction, (iii) metal recovery and (iv) matrix valorisation. Several promising novel techniques are under development for these four unit-operations. From an economical and environmental point of view, such processes must be fitted into new (circular) business models, whereby impacts and costs are divided over the entire value chain. Currently, low-grade secondary raw material processing is only economic and environmentally beneficial when the mineral residues can be valorised and landfill costs are avoided and/or incentives for waste processing can be taken into account.Presented on