Progress Beyond State of the Art
In our efforts to advance beyond the current state of the art, we're making strides in several key areas:
Magnesium Crystallisation: We're employing cutting-edge modelling techniques and tools to revolutionise the crystallisation process of Magnesium Hydroxide, which led to the creation of an innovative Magnesium crystallization unit (Mg-CGCR).
Lithium Separator: We developed high-performing, cost-effective Lithium membranes, a significant improvement over existing market offerings. We also constructed a unique Lithium-selective electro-membrane device (Li-MFCDI) for testing these breakthroughs.
Trace Element Recovery from Seawater: With novel, highly selective sorbents, we've achieved continuous extraction of trace elements from seawater, proven through pilot scale tests.
Closed Loop Circular Process: We're pioneering auxiliary technologies for concentrating and separating solutions, and generating chemicals and energy in-situ, with the goal of realising a circular, self-sustaining system using saltwork bitterns.
We have prototyped and patented a range of innovative technologies, such as a Magnesium Crystalliser, lithium selective membranes and separation cell, and trace element recovery units. We also patented integrated water desalination processes with saltworks and an innovative waste-stream valorisation process.
The SEArcularMINE circular process aims to bolster sustainable access to vital trace elements like Mg, B, and Li within the EU, advance a clean, low carbon economy, and unlock significant reserves of underused resources. This environmentally conscious approach, leveraging only seawater and eliminating the need for external chemicals, will significantly reduce the demand for energy and freshwater. Furthermore, our technology aims to mitigate freshwater scarcity cost-effectively by incorporating seawater desalination within existing saltworks facilities.
