#earth science

Mineral Resources picture. These images are taken by Colin Veitch in the Microscopy Unit - he works in Waurn Ponds.

Investigating interactions between sulfide minerals and in-situ recovery fluids for copper mining

In-situ recovery (ISR) is emerging as a transformative technique for the extraction of copper (Cu) from Australian sediment-hosted deposits and reprocessing of mine tailings. In contrast to conventional hard-rock mining, ISR offers a non-invasive, environmentally sustainable and economically viable alternative, with the potential to unlock copper resources from low-grade or marginal deposits. As Cu is essential for the electrification of transport and renewable energy systems, ISR technologies hold significant potential to contribute to the global development and deployment of low-carbon energy and transport infrastructure in a manner that minimise impacts on the environment and local communities. This project, in collaboration with EnviroCopper Ltd, will investigate the mineralogical, geochemical, biological and kinetic aspects of fluid-rock interactions during ISR of the Kapunda Cu deposit, South Australia. By addressing these aspects, it will advance our understanding of ISR processes and support its broader adoption at both national and global scale.

Environment picture

Quantifying methane emissions from wastewater treatment

This project aims to quantify methane emissions from wastewater treatment plants. The expected outcomes are improved understanding of methane emissions from within the plant, their spatial and temporal variability, and how they contribute to the total emissions. This may reduce emissions of methane.