$3M partnership to drive innovation in critical minerals sector

Curtin University has announced a new $3m research collaboration with Mining Process Solutions (MPS), a division of Draslovka to commercialise a safer more sustainable mineral extraction technology in the resources sector.

The project, one of 47 research initiatives supported by the Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer to date, will focus on advancing glycine leaching technology through a new Innovative Leaching Research Project Team led by Curtin University Associate Professor Elsayed Oraby.

“The non-toxic amino acid has the potential to replace hazardous chemicals like cyanide in mineral extraction processes,” Prof Oraby said.

“The safer and more sustainable process is particularly suited for extracting valuable metals including gold, copper, cobalt and nickel from ore, making it a critical innovation in the evolving minerals sector.”

Trailblazer director Rohan McDougall says the project will see Curtin’s postdoctoral researchers and PhD candidates work alongside technical experts from Draslovka as part of the project team.

“This initiative exemplifies the value of industry-academia partnerships in strengthening Australia’s critical minerals sector,” he said.

“It’s just one example of how the Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer, funded through the Federal Government’s Trailblazer Universities Program, is accelerating the development and application of innovative technologies.”

Draslovka’s MPS will provide $2m and Curtin University’s Trailblazer $1m to fund the research collaboration.

Draslovka chief technology officer Ivor Bryan says the company is thrilled to be working with Curtin University to realise full-scale commercial implementation following a decade of pilot studies.

“The potential for glycine leaching to replace traditional, hazardous chemicals is a game-changer for our industry,” he said.

“By combining Draslovka’s technical expertise with Curtin’s innovative research, we are positioned to deliver meaningful advancements in sustainability and safety across mining operations worldwide.”

To date the Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer has committed $102m to 47 research initiatives which includes $67.6m from industry partners including BHP (ASX: BHP), Rio Tinto (ASX: RIO), Lynas Rare Earths (ASX: LYC), Woodside Energy (ASX: WDX), Cadoux (ASX: CCM), Sakura Ferroalloys and Xcalibur.

Funding has been provided by Curtin University, The University of Queensland and James Cook University, Trailblazer industry partners, and the Department of Education’s Trailblazer Universities Program.