Mineral Processing and Recycling
Our research areas:
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Process engineering in service of the circular economy of raw materials
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Green chemistry for mineral froth flotation
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Physical separation technologies for recycling
Our current research activities include:
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Fundamental understanding of interfacial phenomena in mineral froth flotation
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Green chemical systems in mineral froth flotation
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New physical separation operations for battery waste
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Statistical entropy analysis supported by process simulation as a parameter of materials circularity
The Research Group for Mineral Processing and Recycling is led by Prof. Rodrigo Serna. Our approach is to study the underlying phenomena responsible of the performance of mineral processing operations. Of particular interest is the study of the interfacial phenomena occurring during mineral enrichment, in order to gain a practical understanding on the correlation between adsorptive or surface chemical reactions and the macroscopic performance of the operations. Through the understanding of the phenomena involved, it may be possible to propose novel chemical systems that could further improve the efficiency of currently used enrichment operations, or even propose new processing methods altogether. The research group also counts with expertise in computational fluid dynamics with which alternative processing systems or new designs of mechanical components can be tested.
Our current research projects deal with the exploration of green chemicals for flotation and the quality and potential cross-contamination in water circuits. Our research group is also responsible for the courses related to mineral processing and recycling, including fundamentals, unit operations and plant design.
Research group members:
Join us!
- We are constantly looking for opportunities to improve the way in which we produce raw materials. We believe there is a better way for mining and recycling, both with new technologies and the active involvement of society. If you would like to know more about our group’s activities, please contact us ([email protected]).
- Are you already a student at Aalto looking for thesis topics or internships? Please enquire directly with us about opportunities ([email protected])
- Interested on Doctoral studies in our team? Please check Aalto careers website for available positions
Related content:
New Academy Projects to be launched in September
New Academy Projects funded by the Academy of Finland involve expertise from all six Aalto schools
Ecofriendly chemicals can actually improve mineral processing
Nontoxic and biodegradable cellulose-based compound accelerates the mineral separation processes and reduces the use of other chemicals
Get to know us: Assistant professor Rodrigo Serna
Assistant professor Rodrigo Serna’s goal is to find new ways to produce sufficient raw materials for our modern society. Let’s hear more!
A joint laboratory of circular economy was opened in Otaniemi
The Geological Survey of Finland, VTT and Aalto University work together with industry to develop solutions for the needs of a carbon-neutral and resource-efficient society.
EIT-labelled course generates new talent and future leaders in the mining industry
The European Mining Course demonstrates a remarkable quality in terms of internationalization, educational innovation, entrepreneurship and societal impact.
Latest publications:
Aqueous bifunctionalization of cellulose nanocrystals through amino and alkyl silylation: functionalization, characterization, and performance of nanocrystals in quartz microflotation
A Study on the Effect of Particle Size on Li-Ion Battery Recycling via Flotation and Perspectives on Selective Flocculation
Exentropy: a novel engineering tool to evaluate energy and material circularity
Physical-chemical study of IPETC and PAX collector's adsorption on covellite surface
Toward the Implementation of Circular Economy Strategies: An Overview of the Current Situation in Mineral Processing
N-Alkylated Chitin Nanocrystals as a Collector in Malachite Flotation
Improving the flotation recovery of Cu from flash smelting slags by utilizing cellulose-based frother formulationss
Recovering value from end-of-life batteries by integrating froth flotation and pyrometallurgical copper-slag cleaning
Electrochemical discharge of Li-ion batteries - A methodology to evaluate the potential of discharge electrolytes without corrosion
Overcoming data gaps for an efficient circular economy: A case study on the battery materials ecosystem
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