Geometallurgy and ore processing
The Minerals, Microbe and Solutions research group (MMS) uses innovative experimental techniques and theoretical modelling, in order to study a variety of phenomena related to geo-metallurgy and ore processing.
The group focusses on:
- fluid-rock interactions to investigate mineral replacement phenomena;
- geo-microbiology of precious metals;
- metal transport in hydrothermal systems; and
- synchrotron geosciences.
In doing so, it provides both molecular level understanding and mechanistic information in a variety of mineral systems by investigating them in-situ in real time at conditions relevant to process industries. The insights gained are then used towards targeted large-scale applications in geo-metallurgy, ore processing and mineral exploration.
The group is part of the ARC Cu-U Transformation Hub, which focuses on harnessing the expertise and facilities of key universities in Australia to develop, test and commercialise new, safe and cost-effective methods to separate deleterious elements from Cu concentrates and enable novel IP to position Australia as a world leader in copper production and associated technology. The group also conducts research with several other industry and university partners.
Geomimetics: Nature informing ISR from gold-bearing sulphides and nickel laterites (PDF, 2.14 MB)
For more information, visit our Ores and Resources page.