Highlights from the 4th XTRACT General Assembly Meeting
Date : 27/11/2024 – 28/11/2024
The 4th GA of the XTRACT Project took place from November 27–28, 2024, in the historic mining area of São Domingos, Portugal, hosted by LNEG (Laboratório Nacional de Energia e Geologia). This pivotal gathering brought together project partners from across Europe to discuss progress, present results, and refine strategies for implementing innovative and sustainable technologies in critical metal extraction and mine waste recycling.
Day 1: Presentations and Discussions
The first day began with a warm welcome from LNEG, followed by presentations from project partners. Partners presented and discussed progress on innovative technologies aimed at sustainable extraction of critical metals and the remediation of mine wastes. Key advancements included the development of bioleaching processes utilizing acidophilic microorganisms to recover metals directly from ore bodies and mining residues at pilot sites in Germany and Portugal. Cutting-edge methods such as membrane filtration for metal recovery and electrodialysis for recycling sulfate-rich bioleach solutions were highlighted, along with lab-scale studies on waste valorization from São Domingos. These technologies are being implemented and tested at pilot sites, focusing on resource efficiency, environmental sustainability, and reduced emissions.
Day 2: Field Visit to São Domingos Mine
On the second day, participants toured the São Domingos mining area, led by Dr. João Matos of LNEG, with support from the Serrão Martins Foundation and the Mértola Municipality.
The field visit included:
– A geological and historical introduction to São Domingos and Mértola.
– Exploration of the open pit and its surroundings, as well as notable areas such as Moitinha and Achada do Gamo.
This provided invaluable context for the project’s focus on sustainable resource extraction from mining residues.
The XTRACT team extends its gratitude to LNEG for their outstanding organization and to all partners for their contributions to the project’s success. Together, we continue advancing sustainable and innovative approaches to critical metal recovery and environmental remediation.
