BASF and Moleaer partner to enhance copper recovery at existing mines

Demand for copper is expected to increase significantly, as it is an essential raw material for driving the electric revolution. This will play a key role as an enabler to decarbonising the global economy. According to a report released in July by S&P Global Market Intelligence, the annual demand for copper is projected to reach 50 million t by 2035, from the current level of 25 million t. The study also identified a potential copper deficit of as much as 10 million t.

As existing mines deplete their resources, higher demand will require new mines. In addition, ore grades are declining, ore mineralogy is becoming more complex, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) responsibilities are increasing. The result is that new mines are taking longer and longer to come to fruition. Therefore, maximising the recovery of copper from existing reserves has never been more crucial.

Copper is extracted from primary sulfide ores through a flotation process and low-grade ores are traditionally discarded because they are too costly to process. Currently, an alternative hydrometallurgical heap leach process is employed for low grade oxide and secondary sulfide ores. It is, however, very difficult to leach primary sulfide ores, such as chalcopyrite, which leads to low recovery efficiencies.

Based on test work conducted by BASF, Moleaer’s nanobubble technology improves the extraction process of valuable metals such as copper. When combined with BASF's LixTRA™ reagent, the mineral recovery rates and efficiencies are compounded, especially in sulfide-based ores such as chalcopyrite, which have historically been challenging to leach effectively.

Caren Hoffman, who leads the global mining solutions business at BASF, stated:

“Technological improvements and collaborations like the one we announced today are essential if the industry is to maximise the recovery of copper at existing mines. By combining BASF’s LixTRA reagent, allowing greater ore-lixiviant contact, together with Moleaer’s nanobubble technology to facilitate a higher oxidative environment, we offer technology to the industry to significantly increase copper recoveries.”

Nick Dyner, CEO of Moleaer, added:

“We look forward to working with BASF, a global leader in mineral extraction chemistry, to improve the recovery of copper and help support the green economy. This important collaboration comes at a time when the ability of mining copper is only getting more costly and challenging. Moleaer’s nanobubble technology will allow the mining industry to improve the efficiency and efficacy in existing mines and narrow the gap between supply and demand of copper.”

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/handling-processing/09112022/basf-and-moleaer-partner-to-enhance-copper-recovery-at-existing-mines/