Leaching behaviour of precious and critical mineral ores: impact of comminution strategy

About this project

This project will investigate the molecular interactions occurring at minerals surfaces during leaching of precious (e.g. gold) and critical minerals (e.g. rare earth elements). The role of grain boundary breakage and surface liberation of minerals for highly selective precious and critical metal extraction while limiting the effect of gangue minerals (e.g. reactive silicate phases) will be studied together with the impact of wet and dry grinding.

The successful delivery of this project will contribute to confidence for stable critical mineral supply to meet the rising demands from Australia and India, aligning with Australia’s Critical Minerals Strategy. It also addresses major industry challenges with tailings management and water consumption in the processing of valuable minerals. Stable supply of critical minerals is vital for a smooth energy transition to a net zero carbon options. The fundamental knowledge to be developed from this research work will enhance Australia’s capability and expertise in the processing of low-grade deposits, using advanced dry crushing and grinding technologies together with new leaching methods (e.g. InnovEco’s RIMM technology).

What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will undertake resource engineering and extractive metallurgy activities. You will gain skills in developing and solving mathematical models, and in working with advanced characterisation techniques, and mineral processing and hydrometallurgical equipment.

This project is part of the larger mineral processing group within the Institute so you will also interact with the surface and interfacial characterisation groups. This gives you the opportunity to collaborate with a wider group of stakeholders outside the University, both in Australia and internationally.

Travel to and presentation at conferences will be encouraged and supported, so that you can gain feedback on your research and start building your research and professional network.

Where you’ll be based

You will be based in the Future Industries Institute (FII) which was established with a new research culture in mind – one deeply engaged with industry, with the end goal of building economic growth through relevant innovation and industry partnership.

The Institute reflects the University’s strategic ambition to be Australia’s University of Enterprise which engages fully with the professions and industry globally, whose research is informed, leading edge and relevant. FII continues to forge national and international research partnerships in new industries and technologies that address real world issues. Our goal is to support a creative and engaged culture and to help develop a sustainable ecosystem in which innovation, complex, growth-focused industries thrive.

FII's research supports state and national research priorities and comprises top research teams able to collaborate across disciplines and to work with industry partners to deliver innovative solutions.

With a vibrant research environment, a strong industry orientation, and active international and national links, both academic and industry based, the Institute is among the very best in Australia and attracts and retains leading researchers. Financial Support

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $32,500 per annum is available to eligible applicants. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $46,653 per annum (2023 rates). A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information for domestic students or international students.

Eligibility and Selection

This project is open to applications from both domestic and international applicants. Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. 

Additionally, applicants must meet the project selection criteria:

• Hold a qualification in mineral processing or a related discipline

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project. A merit selection process will be used to determine the successful candidate.

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our Mawson Lakes campus in the north of Adelaide.

Essential Dates

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close Sunday 4 June 2023.