Task 2.5: The European Green Deal challenging advanced exploration and valorisation methods of critical raw materials

Task lead: GTK, UOULU

Action 2.5.1: Critical metals and minerals in Fennoscandia – advanced exploration methods (GTK)

A three-day workshop (M33) will introduce the participants to modern data acquisition and integration methods utilised in mineral exploration and ore potential mapping. The course will be led by GTK’s leading experts and based on recent research on Paleoproterozoic Metsämonttu Zn-Pb-Cu-Ag-Au deposit in southwest Finland. The lectures will be supported by demos and practical exercises from both drill cores and in the field and cover topics such as the use of handheld XRF instruments, hyperspectral scanning, and petrophysical measurements as well as traditional visual logging of the drill core and laboratory sampling.The course will include an introduction to recognition of volcanic and sedimentary textures in the field and integration of geochemistry to reconstruct stratigraphy. Methods and software used for data visualisation and interpretation will also be covered.

Action 2.5.2: State-of-the-art mineral processing techniques with particular focus on phosphate (UOULA)

5-day training course focused on the basic principles of mineral processing, including the linkage between ore characterisation and deposit mineralogy, the selection of mineral processing unit operations, and the design of process flow sheets for efficient beneficiation. Knowledge on both mineralogy and process technology is essential in the early development stage of new mining projects. The operational aspect of processing of phosphates will be a particular focus. The training will comprise lectures and experimental test work on selected ore samples at Oulu Mining School Research Centre facilities plus a visit to GTK Mintec´s modern and high capacity test plant for mineral processing.