MGB, DOST collaborate on nickel research
The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) is stepping up its research and development after it collaborated with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for the optimization of the reduction parameters of low grade laterites.
MGB’s Metallurgical Technology Division (MeTD) is partnering with DOST’s Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEETRD) for a two-year project which will begin on the second quarter of this year.
The project, “Pilot Scale Production of Nickel Pig Iron from Low Grade Laterite Ore,” aims for the optimization of the reduction parameters of low-grade laterites and the conduct of a pilot blast furnace testing for the production of nickel pig iron.
Originally coming from China, nickel pig iron is the cheaper alternative to pure nickel using laterite nickel ores which, in turn, is used in the production of stainless steel.
Nickel laterite ores used to make nickel pig iron are found in abundance in Indonesia which, along with the deposits in the Philippines, accounts for nearly 40 percent of the known world reserves.
The project is the MGB’s response to DOST’s call for research proposals subject for fund assistance.
It was endorsed in early last year and had undergone review process including division review, technical panel evaluation, and management team evaluation, among others.
The project was also assessed in terms of technical feasibility, financial viability, sustainability and its adherence to DOST’s expanded 6Ps – Publications, Patents, Products, People Services, Places and Policies.
The pre-implementation meeting, headed by DOST, had already been conducted. The MGB now waits for the release of the memorandum of agreement from DOST-PCIEETRD.
The MGB continues to pursue innovative technologies for the value-addition of Philippine minerals through research and development.
It also eyes to propose another project which will focus on a more economical hydrometallurgical extraction of nickel and possible rare earth contents of laterite ores.