Ural scientists presented a revolutionary development for the mining industry. The new technology solves one of the most pressing problems – the neutralization of toxic arsenic, while simultaneously increasing the efficiency of precious metal extraction.
Specialists of the Ural Federal university created a unique method that makes it possible to safely extract arsenic from ore and technogenic raw materials. The dangerous element is converted into stable compounds suitable for long-term and safe storage. This innovation was developed in the laboratory of advanced technologies for processing mineral raw materials.
Arsenic remains a critically hazardous contaminant, especially in gold mining. Its high toxicity complicates ore processing and creates serious environmental threats. New technology is radically changing the situation. It not only neutralizes the toxic element, but also significantly increases the percentage of extraction of gold and other valuable metals. This is especially true for difficult-to-process ores and raw materials with a complex composition.
The versatility of the approach allows it to be used for a wide range of materials, including those that traditional methods do not handle well. The technology includes several successive stages, providing a comprehensive solution. Thus, two key tasks are solved: increasing the economic returns of enterprises and minimizing harm to the environment.
The development has already aroused keen interest among the largest industrial companies in Russia and the CIS countries. UrFU actively cooperates with UMMC, Kazakhmys and Navoi MMC. A patent application has already been filed. According to experts, the potential of the method allows it to be implemented at such giants as Polyus, Polymetal and Norilsk Nickel.
The work of scientists continues within the framework of the Priority 2030 program. They plan to expand the list of raw materials for which the new technology is applicable. This development breaks new ground for safe and efficient mining, offering the industry a long-awaited all-in-one solution.
The material was prepared with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science as part of the Decade of Science and Technology.
Source: @dprom
