Improve Recovery from Refractory and Complex Ores to Close to 100%
Our proprietary, inductively coupled, and environmentally friendly RADIO FREQUENCY PLASMA ("RFP") system exemplifies our commitment to innovative tech solutions. This advanced plasma technology effectively breaks apart the matrix of refractory and complex ores, freeing precious metals—such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), and platinum group metals (platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), rhodium (Rh), ruthenium (Ru), iridium (Ir), and osmium (Os)—as well as rare earth elements from their encapsulation in ores, coal, phosphates, and fly ash, significantly increasing recovery rates (100% material balance). The photo above showcases one of our cutting-edge plasma torches.
Here are some examples of the exceptional recoveries we've achieved:
Example 1 - Silver: from 0.1 grams/ton recovery rate to 100 grams/ton = 1000% of original recovery.
Example 2 - Gold: from 34 grams/ton recovery rate to 500 grams/ton = 1500% of original recovery.
Example 3 - Scandium: from 0.001 grams/ton recovery rate to 0.002 grams/ton = 200% of original recovery.
Our in-flight melting process utilizes a plasma torch with argon (or other suitable gas) at atmospheric pressure, applying high to ultra-high temperatures (6,400 °C to 14,000 °C) without combustion in a precisely controlled flow to concentrated ores (about 100 mesh in size), achieving separation within mere milliseconds.
The system employs a quick quenching method to recover the metals before vaporization, ensuring efficiency in our biotechnology solutions.
The end product consists of freed precious metals or rare earth elements in very fine powder form (less than 1 micron), which can then be rendered neutral and purified through conventional extraction and refining methods.
Not a startup technology: Our systems have been in operation for precious metals for over a decade!
Advantages of Our RFP Systems
Higher recovery rates of nearly 100% for rare earth elements and precious metals are achievable through our innovative tech solutions. This approach is suitable for a large number of ore types and accommodates a wide range of particle sizes. Utilizing advanced plasma technology, there are no chemicals involved, ensuring no water contamination due to a closed-loop cooling system. Additionally, there are no high-pressure systems, heated bodies, or emissions, resulting in virtually no health or safety hazards, as the exhaust gas is primarily ambient air in most situations.
This technology can alter the shape, morphology, chemical composition, and crystal structure of the ore, including particles at sub-micron sizes. It allows for the custom mixing of gases to achieve the desired chemistry when all materials are in a gaseous elemental state. Continuous and consistent operations are enabled, with materials being cleared from the cloud within a specific timeframe, facilitating uninterrupted processing for weeks or months.
Importantly, the plasma never contacts the material being processed, which makes it possible to handle highly reactive materials, such as corrosive waste or high-purity semiconductors, without any risk of contamination. Overall, this plasma technology is highly versatile and economical to implement, featuring low capital expenditure (CAPEX) and minimal ongoing operational and maintenance requirements (low OPEX), making it a leading choice among biotechnology solutions.
Our Systems are Customized to Your Plant
We begin by collaborating with you to assess how our technology solutions can enhance recovery at your facility. This involves processing a sample (2 pounds at 100 mesh) of your ore using our full-scale Plasma Technology unit in our laboratory, followed by analysis either by your lab or an independent lab. This evaluation helps determine how much the plasma process can boost your yield and improve the structure of the minerals for further processing.
Next, we work together to design an RFP system that seamlessly integrates with your existing processing plant or a new build, utilizing our Innovative Tech Solutions.
Our systems can be easily installed in current plants, ensuring minimal disruption.
Additionally, we focus on collaborating with you to minimize power costs.