SGCI supports nanotechnology project adding value to mining industry in Botswana

The mining industry in Botswana plays a pivotal role in the country’s’ economy, accounting for around 20% of GDP. However, chemicals are a much-needed part of the mining process, and they drive up costs. Mining companies in Botswana import chemicals from around the world, including China, South Africa and the USA. The chemicals act as reagents, separating the valuable minerals from the waste materials in ores. The use of effective reagents in the mining industry in Botswana is, therefore, critical. It helps to reduce costs and maximise profits. However, many of the existing synthetic chemicals used in mineral separation are toxic to both humans and the environment.

The Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) works with Science Granting Councils in Africa on research and development. The initiative strengthens the capacities of granting councils. It does this through evidence-based policies and research that contribute to economic and social development. The SGCI has worked with Botswana’s Ministry of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology on a project to help add value to mineral ores using nanotechnology. We explore the project in this blog.

A project to revolutionise the mining industry in Botswana

The project aims to revolutionize the mining industry in Botswana. It is doing this through the development of innovative nanotechnology. This technology can help to reduce the impact of chemicals on the environment, making mineral processing less harmful and more socially responsible. The project has created cost-effective, eco-friendly alternatives to existing chemicals for mineral separation. The use of locally sourced materials, such as sand for example, are paving the way for a cleaner environment. Ultimately, the project addresses concerns around environmental degradation and toxicity.

A cleaner process for mineral ore production

The nano-engineered chemicals are produced from sand through the ‘sol-gel’ method. Through this process, pulverized, raw sand is first subjected to a series of purification steps. This removes impurities and ensures a higher quality product. Next, the purified sand is processed using advanced techniques, including ‘sol-gel synthesis’. This is where a mixture of sand and other chemicals is transformed into a gel. The particles are then broken down into nanoscale particles. These nanoparticles are then further modified to enhance their properties for specific applications in mineral processing. The result is an innovative and unique material that can significantly improve the efficiency and sustainability of the mining industry in Botswana.

Reaping results with nanoparticles

Through rigorous testing, the nano-engineered materials have shown promising results. They have enhanced the efficiency and selectivity of the ‘froth flotation’ process. This is a common mineral processing technique in which reagents help to separate or ‘float’ specific minerals by modifying their surfaces. The technique creates conditions that allow for separation based on chemical and physical properties. The froth flotation process is particularly useful for separating valuable minerals from waste. It does this through reducing the amount of chemicals used. Thus, it has significant implications for reducing operational costs. It maximizes profits for mining companies while safeguarding the environment and local mining communities.

Working in partnership on mineral ores

The project is currently in the early stage of transitioning from research to commercialization. The Botswana Chamber of Mines and Khoemacau Copper Mine have been approached for industrial testing of the reagent. Furthermore, other mines such as Botswana Premium Nickel Resources (formerly BCL Limited) and Motheo Sand Fire have generously provided ore samples. These can be used to validate the efficacy of the developed reagent. The project is also working to obtain intellectual property (IP) rights and a patent to safeguard the innovation.

The project is not only making headway in the mining industry in Botswana. It is expected that this technology will pave the way for widespread adoption of the project’s novel reagents in various industries. For example, it could be possible to further develop the nanoparticles for use in agricultural soil monitoring. Furthermore, the project has fostered valuable links with researchers. This includes with Mr Tatenda Madzokere from Midlands State University, Zimbabwe. This bilateral collaboration has helped to facilitate the exchange of knowledge. It has also led to the sharing of limited equipment as well as information sharing for sustainable mining practices.

Return on the research investment

This collaboration was made possible by a collective effort between the SGCI, Botswana Digital and Innovation Hub and Research Council of Zimbabwe. These organizations assisted teams from Botswana International University of Science and Technology and Midlands State University with funding to the tune of BWP 500,000.00 and USD 30,000.00 respectively. The partnerships have strengthened the impact and reach of the project’s innovative solutions. Moreover, they have driven positive change across borders. The project represents a holistic approach to a more sustainable mining industry in Botswana. It combines scientific innovation, public-private partnerships and cross-border collaborations. Through this, the project can create a greener and more socially responsible mining industry in Botswana and beyond.

For more information about SGCI, see: https://sgciafrica.org