Research objectives
The primary aim of this project is to develop a cutting-edge process technology capable of facilitating the operation of a copper smelting plant with near-zero emissions. This objective entails the integration of various crucial processes, including the pre-treatment of copper (Cu) concentrate using green hydrogen, carbon di oxide (CO2) capture through the Calcium Looping method, and CO2 utilization to treat a Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) containing gas stream generated during pre-treatment. The proposed concept will undergo validation to achieve Technology Readiness Levels 5, ensuring its feasibility under industry relevant conditions.
Key objectives
- Evaluate and determine optimal design parameters for pre-treating copper concentrate with hydrogen (WP1).
- Validate the Calcium Looping process for CO2 capture in sulfur-rich environments (WP2).
- Demonstrate the potential of a less energy intensive Chemical Looping Concept in utilizing CO2 captured from exhaust gases to treat H2S (WP2).
- Utilize process modeling and analysis to estimate material and energy flows, enabling the calculation of key performance indicators (WP4).
- Evaluate the techno-economic feasibility of the process (WP4).
- Assess environmental impact through Life Cycle Assessment (WP4).
- Identify feasibility for upscaling (WP5).
- Disseminate the project results (WP6).