New Nickel Extraction Method Could Impact Industry Internationally

ScienceNetwork Western Australia reported that Perth CSIRO scientists and an Australian technology company have collaborated on a method of extracting nickel from low-grade ore in a commercially viable manner. Those involved in the project believe the new process could impact the international nickel industry.

As quoted in the market news:

The new extraction technology has been six years in development after DNi, which has the patent for nitric acid recycling, approached CSIRO to develop it for metallurgical processes.

In the new ore extraction process nitric acid replaces sulphuric acid high pressure acid leaching, which encountered severe problems through the need for expensive waste treatment and disposal systems.

By replacing sulphuric acid with nitric acid these are largely overcome.

Click here to read the full ScienceNetwork Western Australia report.