The global connections fund aims to provide funding support to Australian researches and SMEs. Specifically the fund is designed to;
- increase linkages and collaborations with key global economies (e.g. the UK)
- promote researcher-industry engagement and knowledge transfer
- encourage translational activities, end use development and commercialisation outcomes
For the 2016/17 round of Priming grant and Bridging grant applications Petrolab Limited applied with the University of Tasmania for funds to “Integrate kinetic testing for best practice mine waste characterization”. The trend in mining towards larger, lower grade ores, means that often >99% of material mined is waste. Often this waste contains sulfide minerals that produce acid by processes known as acid rock drainage and metal leaching (ARDML). If this acidic drainage enters water courses, toxic metals may enter the surrounding ecosystem and become bio-accessible to humans. Management of mine waste is therefore critical to protect communities and reduce liabilities when the mine reaches end of life. This project is looking to develop best practice for ARDML management.
This work aims to reform feed characterization through the introduction of a threefold pre-characterisation protocol. This would involve (i) automated mineralogy, (ii) novel accelerated geochemical tests, and (iii) trace element chemistry on humidity cell test feed samples. The aim is to structure these into a procedural amendment to the mine waste characterisation workflow for consideration by the global standards committee.
Both the priming grant and bridging grant applications were successful and Petrolab look forward to working closely with the University of Tasmania over the coming 12 months.
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