University of Coimbra implements pilot metal recovery system at Panasqueira mine

A research team from the Faculty of Sciences and Technology of the University of Coimbra (FCTUC) has implemented a pilot system at the Panasqueira tungsten mine to recover critical metals from mining waste using microorganism-based processes.

The new system is part of the 'REVIVING - Revisiting Mine Tailings to Innovate Metals Recovery' project, which aims to recover mining waste, promote recycling, reduce hazardous waste, and support a circular economy in Europe.

"In this pilot installation, we are implementing strategies developed in the laboratory to compare and understand which technique is best suited for waste recovery," explains Paula Morais, a professor at the Department of Life Sciences (DCV) and a researcher at the Centre for Mechanical, Materials, and Process Engineering (CEMMPRE).

"We believe the mine waste has economic value, especially as Europe strives to become more self-sufficient in metals. This is also in line with the European Commission's Raw Materials Act, which aims to guarantee access to a secure and sustainable supply of raw materials from European sources," says Rita Branco, a professor at DCV and a researcher at CEMMPRE.

The scientists explain: “The microbiology group focused on non-acidic bioleaching processes using microorganisms that produce organic molecules, which allowed us to remove a significant amount of metal. The results that we have obtained in the laboratory are quite promising.”, further adding that “This is a clean, cost-effective and innovative bioprocess for recovering metals from waste, returning the waste to the production cycle and supporting the EU's transition to a circular economy.”

The project REVIVING has as partners researchers and companies linked to the mining sector in France, Romania and Portugal