About Mintek SCi

About Mintek SCi

Mintek SCi, the Science Convention for Innovators in Engineering, Science and Technology, is a flagship platform supporting the development of young professionals and emerging researchers in science, engineering, technology and innovation.

The convention provides a bridge between academic research and industrial application, giving researchers aged 35 and under from academia, industry and research institutions an opportunity to showcase their work, receive peer feedback and build professional networks.

The 2026 edition brings together emerging research, strategic dialogue, practical innovation and opportunities for collaboration across the minerals and metallurgical sector.

The 2026 Theme

The Next Frontier: Emerging Scientists Driving Change

What Mintek SCi aims to achieve

  • Catalyse the development of early career researchers through presentation and publication opportunities.
  • Strengthen links between industry and academia through research engagement and the Graduate Hackathon.
  • Raise the visibility of South African research and innovation.
  • Promote inclusive participation across universities and research institutions.
  • Create a forum for forward looking scientific dialogue on emerging challenges and opportunities in mining, minerals processing and metallurgy.

Conference Themes

Critical Minerals

Sustainable extraction techniques, processing and beneficiation, recovery from low grade ores and secondary resources, circular economy approaches and technological innovation in processing.

Energy

Renewable energy applications, fuel cell technologies, energy storage, hydrogen technologies and energy efficiency in mineral processing.

Emerging Technologies

Machine learning and artificial intelligence, process modelling and simulation, advanced process control, digital twins, smart operations, extraction technologies and advanced materials.

Sustainability and Circular Economy

Water treatment and management, mine rehabilitation and closure, asbestos rehabilitation, sustainable water use, carbon emissions reduction, decarbonisation, resource efficiency and circularity.