The collaboration between Ragn-Sells and LKAB for the extraction of valuable minerals from mining waste began in the autumn of 2018. Laboratory tests have been conducted and show that the patented KMAP technology can produce more phosphorus and rare earth metals from LKAB’s mining waste than expected.
"Thanks to the excellent results shown in our laboratory tests, we are confident to now invest in the continued pilot study and the new pilot facilities", says Jan Moström, CEO of LKAB.
To develop and prepare the technology for full scale industrialization, two pilot plants are now being built. One in Malmfälten next to the LKAB operations, and one in Uppsala located at Ragn-Sells’ innovation company EasyMining who has developed the patented KMAP technology.
"Our way of living today is based on unsustainable use of natural resources. Therefore, it is gratifying that our collaboration with LKAB contributes to the transition towards a more sustainable society where Sweden can become an exporting nation of phosphorus and other important raw materials", says Ragn-Sells’ CEO Lars Lindén.
In a full scale industry, the production of phosphorus is expected to deliver up to five times as much as Sweden’s phosphorus needs, and that the production of rare earth metals will amount to 2 % of the global production.
The pilot phase runs until 2020 and a decision regarding investment in full scale production can be made in 2021.