NineSigma is proud to have partnered with Vale Base Metals for the “Pyrrhotite Resource Recovery Innovation Challenge” and to have delivered breakthrough solutions aimed at addressing one of the mining industry’s critical challenges.

For this challenge, Vale Base Metals sought innovative ways to recover valuable materials from pyrrhotite, a waste byproduct generated during nickel mining operations. The goal was to explore and identify cutting-edge technologies that could transform pyrrhotite from a disposal issue into a valuable resource, aligning with the industry’s broader commitment to sustainability and circularity principles.

About the Innovation Laureates

After receiving and reviewing numerous proposals from around the world, three finalists were selected and recognized as Innovation Laureates. Each laureate is awarded CAD 25,000 for their pioneering proposal and contribution to the challenge.

Laureate 1: Columbia University

Dr. Behzad Vaziri and his team at Columbia University proposed a method to valorize pyrrhotite tailings, generating elemental sulphur and iron as products while producing a non-corrosive sulfate-based solution that doesn’t require the use of a pressure vessel.

Laureate 2: Innord Inc.

Dr. Pouya Hajiani, CTO and his team at Innord Inc proposed a sustainable method to valorize pyrrhotite tailings, producing high-grade iron oxide, elemental sulphur, and nickel concentrate suitable for conventional processing.

Laureate 3: Canadian Mineral Technologies Inc.

Peter Kondos and his team at Canadian Mineral Technologies Inc proposed the PRO chloride process to transform pyrrhotite tailings into high-quality products, leveraging chloride hydrometallurgy for potential benefits.

Our client, Vale Base Metals, expressed gratitude for the success of this challenge by stating:

“We are thrilled to recognize these innovative solutions that not only unlock value from waste but also contribute to sustainable mining practices. The ingenuity and dedication demonstrated by the laureates are truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing the impact of their work on the future of mining.”  Adam MacMillian, Director of Research and Innovation for Vale Base Metals Team

If you need more information about this project, contact NineSigma’s program manager Roha Ali Khan at: roha.khan@ninesigma.com