Resource-efficient, advanced processing of raw materials

Challenge the practice is addressing: Being able to satisfy increasingly more demanding consumers requires a transition to agile manufacturing technologies and mass-customisation. This in turn requires more flexible, on-demand production and assembly processes. At the same time, automated processes and big data solutions, such as inline sensors, will help control and adjust material flows and steer processes towards a new phase of customisation, market driven production that is not only focusing on increased productivity and efficiency, but also on agility and responsiveness.

Concrete practice to achieve the expected goal: In mineral & metal ore processing, cost and energy-efficient pre-processing/beneficiation and metallurgical processing are needed to enable carbon neutral metal production. There are many examples of technologies recommended, some of which include innovating crushing, grinding and sorting technologies, dry separation technologies for fine particle processing, more efficient and environmentally compatible flotation technologies, advance biomining, commercially viable refining of critical raw materials in Europe and more energy efficient hoisting technology.

Expected impact/goal of the practice: The new resource efficient production technologies will help achieve the targets set out in the EU's strategies for a resource efficient and competitive low carbon economy. Other technologies contribute to higher production efficiency, reduction of energy, water demand and the carbon footprint. The positive impact results in lighter, tailor-made products, lower demand for raw materials and additives, increased by-product valorisation and an overall reduction in waste.

Who is the target user group of the practice/intervention or implementing the practice/intervention? Policy makers and industry