Course content

The course focuses on practical aspects and technologies of processing of secondary raw materials, that is solid wastes and anthropogenic secondary resources. The origin of solid wastes (generation, collection, sampling etc.) will be included. Recycling oriented processes involving physical and chemical separation of economically important fluxes of secondary raw materials will be addressed. The challenges in sustainable processing of secondary resources, that is material characterization, equipment selection, flowsheet arrangements etc., will be stressed throughout the course. The benefits and restrictions of recycling (urban mining) (e.g., economic, environmental, social) will be also included.

Learning outcome

The course aims at giving students an understanding of how the mineral processing and extractive metallurgy units can be used for sustainable processing of secondary raw materials.

Knowledge: Students should have acquired knowledge and understand the most common circuits and solutions used in processing of various types of secondary raw materials.

Skills: Students shall be able to use the digital tools to design flowsheets and suggest processes for effective and environmentally friendly systems.

General competence: Students shall be able to formulate and transfer knowledge about metallurgical processes and their impact on environment and social conditions.

Learning methods and activities

The course includes lectures, compulsory exercises (may include laboratory work and reports).

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic knowledge in physics, chemistry, mineralogy and mineral processing.

Required previous knowledge

TGB4227 Mineral Production, Basic Course, TGB4301 Mineral Processing, Basic Course, or similar basic course in mineral processing covering crushing, grinding, separation theory, screening and classifying, gravity separation, magnetic separation and flotation.

Course materials

Given at the beginning of the semester.