AP26198169 – Development and research of technology for processing old tailings from enrichment plants for further processing of secondary tailings into composite materials

Objective of the project – Development and research of technology for processing TMO (stale tailings) of processing plants for the purpose of further processing of secondary tailings to obtain composite materials.

Relevance: The relevance of the project is driven by the need for efficient utilization of technogenic mineral waste (old tailings from processing plants), which accumulate in large volumes and represent a potential source of valuable raw materials. The involvement of these wastes in industrial production helps reduce the burden on natural resources and ensures the preservation of the raw material base. Under conditions of depletion of high-quality deposits, there is an increasing need to develop economically viable technologies for processing secondary resources. The application of ultrafine grinding enables more complete liberation of valuable minerals in tailings and improves their recovery efficiency. The use of modern beneficiation methods, including the Jameson Cell flotation machine, allows optimization of technological parameters and increases the yield of valuable components. The implementation of the project contributes not only to environmental safety but also to the growth of the country’s economic potential, the creation of new jobs, and the improvement of workforce qualifications.

Scientific supervisor: Candidate of technical sciences, Associate Professor, Sabirova Layla

Expected and achieved results: Within the framework of the project, the material and granulometric composition of the raw material has been studied, which made it possible to determine the size of mineral inclusions and establish optimal grinding parameters for the efficient liberation of valuable components. Based on the obtained data, the regimes of ultrafine grinding and subsequent flotation processes have been substantiated. It is expected that the application of ultrafine grinding technologies and Jameson Cell flotation machines will increase the recovery of valuable metals by 15–20% and reduce losses in tailings. The implementation of these solutions will reduce production costs through the use of more energy-efficient and compact equipment. It is also anticipated that environmental sustainability will improve due to the reduction of tailings volume and decreased environmental impact. Overall, the project will enhance the economic efficiency of processing, expand the potential for technology commercialization, and support its implementation at mining enterprises in the Republic of Kazakhstan.