Optimising ore-sand as a scalable circular economy solution to reduce mineral wastes and responsibly supply alternative construction materials - Stage II (2025-2026)
Abstract
This project will advance the TRL of ore-sand, a circular economy solution to drastically reduce mine waste by producing clean, fit-for-purpose, low-carbon sand by-products. In partnership with Newmont's Cadia mine, and building on successful completion of Stage I, we will target completion of TRL4 and the initiation of TRL5. Our focus will be on optimising production and the application of ore-sand in concrete, shotcrete and roadbuilding. To ensure competitive performance, we will benchmark ore-sand against manufactured sand, its closest competitor for substituting naturally occurring sand. By the project's end, we will have developed a higher fidelity process-product system, positioning ore-sand for broader commercial adoption.
