The ION4RAW project proposes a new energy-, material- and cost-efficient mineral processing technology to recover by-products from primary sources by means of innovative Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES) ionic liquids and advanced electrorecovery as an only step. A joint recovery of by-products from primary sources which belong to the Cu-Ag-Au group is proposed. Most of the targeted by-products elements are Critical Raw Materials as bismuth (Bi), germanium (Ge), indium (In), cobalt (Co), platinum (Pt) and antimony (Sb). Accompanying major product metals, e.g. copper (Cu), silver (Ag) and gold (Au), may also be recovered by this process.
Our project has a very promising business potential since it will allow mining and mineral processing companies to fully exploit by-product potential by recovering them at their own facilities. This will contribute to unlocking the full potential of Europe’s inner wealth by converting new and currently unexploited resources into reserves.
The kick-off meeting
For the next 48 months, the consortium will put their effort together in order to elaborate on the cost-efficient mineral processing technology to recover by-products from primary sources. The goal is to reach the technology readiness level (TRL) 5 by implementing a process prototype at TECNALIA (TEC) facilities. At this starting point, the technical feasibility of this concept is supported by the TRL 2-3. Furthermore, to produce a sound systemic solution, comprehensive by-product potential mapping will be carried out to link the ION4RAW process with suitable sources.
Hosted by IDENER (the project coordinator) in Seville on 13-14 June 2019, the ION4RAW kick-off meeting was the occasion for participants to meet in person and also to draw up a detailed work plan for the challenging and exciting months to come. Moreover, we also had the pleasure to welcome our designated EU Project Officer, Floriana La Marca.
More on the consortium
Led by IDENER, it gathers 13 partners from 8 countries across Europe and also Peru jointly committed to strengthening the sustainable supply of non-energy and non-agricultural raw materials