Mintek leading advances in Bioleaching
As the global demand for copper continues to rise, driven by its essential role in electrical equipment, renewable energy infrastructure, and industrial applications, Mintek has positioned itself at the forefront of innovation with its advanced bioleaching technologies. By leveraging its expertise in heap bioleaching, Mintek is poised to have a significant commercial impact on the application of the bioleaching technology for the treatment of low-grade base metal ores. The technology has application in all the major mining regions world-wide.
Copper, known for its excellent conductivity and versatility, is indispensable in various sectors. Additionally, copper's ability to be recycled repeatedly without any degradation in performance makes it a critical resource in the transition to a circular economy. However, the copper industry faces challenges, including declining ore grades, which threaten the sustainability of the industry.
Key to unlocking copper reserves is the development of technologies to recover copper from chalcopyrite, the most abundant, primary copper sulfide mineral, which is notoriously difficult to leach using conventional methods. Bioleaching offers a promising and environmentally friendly way to extract copper from chalcopyrite. Heap leaching, an extractive process in the field of hydrometallurgy enables the recovery of valuable metals such as copper, gold, and uranium from low-grade mineral deposits that were previously considered unviable. Heap bioleaching involves the stacking of crushed ore into large heaps, typically several meters high, over a prepared pad that collects the leachate. Microorganisms thriving in acidic environments and playing a key role in oxidizing iron and sulfur compounds in chalcopyrite are introduced into the heap. The metal-containing leachate is collected at the bottom of the heap. This process is not only environmentally friendly but requires minimal energy and capital investment, offering a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to traditional extraction methods. As the demand for copper continues to grow, especially in the context of renewable energy and electrification, bioleaching will likely play an increasingly important role in the mining industry.
Mintek is a leader in the field of heap leaching, a preferred partner for the evaluation and commercial implementation of chemical and bioleaching processes for low-grade base metal, gold and uranium heap leach projects. At the heart of Mintek's competitive edge is its world-class infrastructure which supports its cutting-edge research and development initiatives.
Nontobeko Nxumalo, Head of Process Design at Mintek’s Biometallurgy Division, expressed pride in the organisation’s contribution to the transformation of the copper industry. "Copper is one of the critical metals for global energy transition; Mintek’s heap bioleaching capabilities play a significant role in unlocking low-grade copper resources. Our success is built on strong partnerships with industry leaders. Together, we are making significant strides in technology and ensuring that the copper industry continues to evolve to meet the demands of the future. We take pride in being a leader that others look to for guidance and inspiration." said Nxumalo.
Dr Molefi Motuku, CEO of Mintek, highlighted the strategic importance of their work. "We are proud to contribute to the transformation of mining processes, addressing industry challenges arising from various sectors in the industry. Collaboration with the mining industry remains a key priority for Mintek, and we will continue to demonstrate our commitment to developing technologies that are both environmentally safer and more efficient," concluded Dr Motuku.
Mintek's work in bioleaching is not only set to drive growth in copper production but also marks a significant step forward in creating more sustainable and responsible mining practices, positioning the organisation as a leader in metallurgical innovation.