Scientists from the Perm State National Research University (PGNIU) are researching a new method for extracting rare earth metals (REM) from mine waters in the Kizelovsky coal basin. The technology will not only provide valuable resources, but also help clean up polluted water bodies.
PGNIU specialists are studying the possibility of extracting niobium, tungsten and scandium from the acidic waters of the closed Klyuchevskaya, Tsentralnaya and Shirokovskaya mines. These fields ceased production 25 years ago due to unprofitability, but groundwater in them continues to accumulate, oxidize and pollute surrounding rivers.
The new technology is aimed at solving two problems: cleaning water bodies and extracting rare earth elements. According to the researchers, this approach can significantly improve the environmental situation in the region.
The authorities of the Perm Territory have already included the cleaning of the rivers of the Kizelovsky basin in the federal program. If the scientists’ development is successful, it could become part of a large-scale project to restore the environment and provide industry with valuable metals.
The research of Perm scientists opens up prospects for environmentally friendly mining of rare earth metals and reducing harm from mine waters. If successful, the technology can be applied to other regions with similar problems.
Source: @dprom
Photo: mediakub.net
