This PhD project aims to investigate the occurrence, distribution, and recovery potential of cobalt and other economically valuable metals—including nickel, arsenic, tungsten, and molybdenum—within the tailings and waste rock at Evolution Mining’s Ernest Henry IOCG deposit. The research will focus on:
- Characterising the deportment of cobalt, nickel, arsenic, and other metals in sulphidic and iron oxide minerals to assess their valorisation potential.
- Understanding how metal deportment varies across the tailings profile and processing chain to inform reprocessing strategies.
- Evaluating environmentally responsible recovery methods and informing decision-making for resource rehabilitation.
Benefits:
The project builds on existing research and leverages The University of Queensland’s advanced analytical and metallurgical facilities. With access to deep tailings samples and the potential for expanded sampling, the study is well-positioned to uncover new insights into the recovery of multiple metals. Outcomes will support circular economy practices, contributing to reduced mine waste footprints and sustainable reprocessing of legacy tailings.
