Funding opportunity
| Who? | University researchers collaborating with private-sector, public-sector and/or not-for-profit organizations |
|---|---|
| How much? | $100,000 to $500,000 per year |
| How long? | 3 years |
| Application deadline | November 9, 2023, 8:00 p.m. (ET) |
| Letter of intent deadline | September 7, 2023, 8:00 p.m. (ET) |
Description Partner organizations Research topics Funding your research project How to apply Review of your application Receiving your funding and starting your project During your research project Resources Contact
To increase the supply of responsibly sourced critical minerals and support the development of domestic and global value chains for the green and digital economy,
Among the 31 minerals that Canada considers critical, Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy identified six minerals which were initially prioritized for their distinct potential to spur Canadian economic growth and their necessity as inputs for priority supply chains. These six minerals are lithium, graphite, nickel, cobalt, copper and rare earth elements (
Alliance Missions grants are intended to provide support for research activities that will
- advance Canadian knowledge, models, processes, tools and technologies to optimize efficiency, minimize environmental impacts, and/or support data-driven decisions along domestic critical mineral value chains, from exploration to recycling (e.g., geological and economic modelling of critical mineral deposits, flowsheets, life-cycle analyses, etc.); and/or
- develop efficient options to advance a domestic circular economy with less reliance on primary mineral resources through mine reclamation and/or critical mineral recycling or reprocessing (e.g., mining and industrial waste, end-of-life products, etc.); and/or
- support the development of best practices in technology, innovation and collaborative ventures (e.g., best practices to advance vertical integration across the sector, etc.).
Growing Canadian expertise at every point along the critical mineral value chain – from exploration to mining to manufacturing to recycling – will contribute to growing the Canadian economy, fighting climate change at home and around the world, and improving the resiliency of Canada’s supply chain and that of its allies to future disruptions.
Partnerships are strongly encouraged across academia, government, private-sector organizations and not-for-profit organizations to develop new tools, methods and models, and to facilitate the uptake of new knowledge to support sustainable and responsible development of Canada’s critical minerals sector. The participation of at least one partner organization that is recognized for
NSERC is committed to supporting research that respectfully involves and engages with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, and their wisdom, cultures, experiences or traditional Indigenous knowledge, as expressed in their dynamic forms, past and present, regardless of their locale. For more guidance, refer to the College and Community Innovation program’s
Grant support ranges from $100,000 to $500,000 per year, for a duration of three years. NSERC will provide support for 100% of the eligible costs of research. Although partner organizations do not need to provide cash contributions to participate, they must actively play a role in the project and support it through in-kind contributions. A broad range of in-kind contributions could be made toward a project; refer to the
Developing and implementing policies or directly applying your research results may depend on scientific understanding beyond the natural sciences and engineering (NSE). Alliance Missions grants support
If you are a Canadian university researcher who is
NSERC encourages the participation of early career researchers (ECRs) as applicants or co-applicants on Alliance Missions grant applications. Accordingly, a proportion of awards equal to the proportion of applications submitted that are led by early career researchers will be reserved for these researchers. For more information on how NSERC categorizes an applicant as an ECR, refer to the
In the case where your application involves one or more partner organizations from the private sector (including industrial associations and producer groups), as well as when they participate alongside other partner organizations from the public and/or not-for-profit sectors, you must complete the
At all times, Canadian researchers are encouraged to exercise appropriate levels of due diligence to safeguard their research. Resources to do so are provided by the Government of Canada on the
Your partner organizations can be private, public or not-for-profit. You may involve whichever partner organizations you need to achieve your research goals and successfully mobilize your research results to achieve the desired impact. At least one of these partners must have a demonstrated ability to exploit such research results, while other partners may be chosen for their ability to generate or mobilize knowledge. Each partner organization must actively play a role in the project and support it through in-kind contributions. Such involvement must be achieved by doing at least one of the following:
- Play an active role in the project’s research activities
- Utilize the project’s research results to help achieve its desired outcomes
- Play an active role in translating or mobilizing knowledge to ensure that the research results have an impact
Various in-kind contributions could be made toward the project, such as the time of the partner organization’s scientific, engineering or technical staff to provide direction and participate in the project; provision of equipment, materials or services; and provision of access to data or special equipment.
Active participation in the project and in-kind contributions are not required from funding organizations (e.g., other provincial or federal funding agencies) providing financial support to the project alongside NSERC (see
You must have at least one partner organization whose cash contributions would be recognized for cost-sharing, had there been any required.
Consult the
You can apply to support any R&D project that will:
- advance Canadian knowledge, models, processes, tools and technologies to optimize efficiency, minimize environmental impacts, and/or support data-driven decisions along domestic critical mineral value chains, from exploration to recycling (e.g., geological and economic modelling of critical mineral deposits, flowsheets, life-cycle analyses, etc.); and/or
- develop efficient options to advance a domestic circular economy with less reliance on primary mineral resources through mine reclamation and/or critical mineral recycling or reprocessing (e.g., mining and industrial waste, end-of-life products, etc.); and/or
- support the development of best practices in technology, innovation and collaborative ventures (e.g., best practices to advance vertical integration across the sector, etc.).
Your project must focus on at least one of the fifteen prioritized critical minerals identified in the
Please note that you cannot use an Alliance Missions grant to support secret or contract research.
Researchers proposing research in collaboration with community groups (such as Indigenous or Northern community groups) are encouraged to consult the resources available in the College and Community Innovation program’s guide,
Developing and implementing policies or directly applying your research results may depend on socio-economic or other requirements, as well as scientific understanding beyond the natural sciences and engineering (NSE). You are encouraged to collaborate with academic researchers in fields other than the NSE. Such researchers may be co-applicants for Alliance Missions grants if they meet
To increase the impact of Canadian NSE research in the global research community, you may incorporate international collaborations into your project proposal. You may interact with foreign colleagues in a variety of ways to enhance collaboration and increase your project’s impact. Refer to the
You can request $100,000 to $500,000 per year from NSERC for three years. Cash contributions from partner organizations are not required. Even though NSERC will cover 100% of the project’s eligible costs, your project must involve at least one partner organization whose cash contributions would be recognized, had there been any required.
You and your co-applicants may receive funds from other sources to cover direct costs of your project. These sources of funds could include cash contributions provided by the university or by other funding agencies. Such funds would add to and complement those requested from NSERC. You must include all of the project’s direct costs funded by sources other than NSERC in the budget table. All costs must be explained in the proposal and are considered in the merit assessment of your proposal.
In-kind contributions are important for the success of the project. All partner organizations participating in the project must play an active role in it and make in-kind contributions through such involvement (see
Alliance Missions grant funds from NSERC cover the direct costs of the research. The funds from NSERC are paid to eligible universities and cannot be used to buy equipment, products or services from any partner organization, or to cover any part of the travel and travel-related subsistence expenditures for partner organization personnel, with the exception of community groups collaborating on the project.
You can include only NSERC-eligible direct costs of research in your project budget, such as
- salary support for undergraduate and graduate students as well as postdoctoral fellows to perform research and related training
- salary support for technicians and research professional personnel
- materials and supplies
- activities that support collaborations and knowledge mobilization related to the project, including the costs associated with building relationships with communities
- activities to develop and grow the research collaborations with the partner organizations, relevant communities, and/or end users
Refer to the guidelines on the use of grant funds in the
You can also include the costs of equipment, provided that the equipment is
- essential to achieving the objectives of the research project
- incremental to the equipment already available at the university or at the partner organization’s location
If your total expected equipment cost (including operation and maintenance) exceeds $400,000 over your project’s duration, then you should apply for an alternate source of funding such as the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s (CFI’s) John R. Evans Leaders Fund. NSERC and CFI have developed a joint application and review procedure for these cases. Contact NSERC or CFI for more details.
For projects involving multiple partner organizations and/or universities, you may include project management costs, up to 10% of the total direct research costs (see
Applicants must begin by submitting a letter of intent (LOI) before the LOI deadline. All eligible applicants will then complete a full application to be submitted before the full application deadline.
The principal applicant must submit an LOI to NSERC using the
Provide a summary of the main objectives and research challenges of the proposed research as it relates to critical minerals. In your summary, briefly explain how your proposed research responds to the
Applicants may participate in only one Alliance Missions grant application for this call, either as the principal investigator or a co-applicant.
The eligibility of the applicant and co-applicants will be reviewed internally by NSERC. If you are unsure about the eligibility of an individual, please contact NSERC at
No changes in the academic research team composition are permitted after an LOI is reviewed and approved by NSERC.
- Log in to
NSERC’s online system and choose Create a new form 101. - Select Research partnerships programs, then Alliance grants.
- For the Proposal type field, select Letter of intent.
- For the Type of call field, select Missions – Critical minerals research from the drop-down menu.
- Follow the instructions to invite co-applicants you wish to participate on your application, if applicable.
- Provide a summary of the proposal as described above and following the instructions provided through NSERC online.
- Suggest the names of five independent experts competent to assess the technical aspects of the planned research.
- Submit your completed LOI and supporting documents, including the
personal data form with CCV attachment for the applicant and all co-applicants, throughNSERC’s online system .
A full application form will be made available to you in the online system within two weeks after the LOI deadline. Teams will be notified that they cannot submit a full application if their LOI is not complete and/or does not adhere to program requirements and objectives.
Applications from eligible applicants will be accepted at any time until November 9, 2023, before 8:00 p.m. (ET).
- Log in to
NSERC’s online system . - Select the appropriate form 101 from your portfolio (Form 101 – Missions – Critical minerals research created at the LOI stage).
- Following the
instructions for completing an Alliance grant application , fill out theproposal template (maximum 10 pages regardless of $ amount requested) and complete the other sections of your application. - Delete the Public impact value proposition section from the proposal template—it does not apply to Alliance Missions grants, even though NSERC provides support for 100% of the eligible costs of research.
- In the case where your application involves one or more partner organizations from the private sector (including industrial associations or producer groups), including when these organizations participate alongside other organizations from the public and/or not-for-profit sectors, also complete the
National Security Guidelines for Research Partnerships’ risk assessment form . - Submit your completed application and supporting documents, including the
personal data form with CCV attachment for the applicant and all co-applicants, throughNSERC’s online system . - Your partner organization’s contact person will be invited through the online system to provide information about the organization following the
partner organization instructions .
By submitting your application, you and your co-applicants (when applicable) agree to the
NSERC is acting on the evidence that achieving a more equitable, diverse and inclusive Canadian research enterprise is essential to creating the excellent, innovative and impactful research necessary to advance knowledge and understanding, and to respond to local, national and global challenges. This principle informs the commitments described in the
Excellent research considers EDI both in the research environment (forming a research team, student training) and in the research process. For Alliance grants, EDI considerations are currently evaluated in the training, mentorship and professional development opportunities for students and trainees. The aim is to remove barriers to the recruitment and promote full participation of individuals from underrepresented groups, including women, Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis), persons with disabilities, members of visible minority/racialized groups and members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Applicants are encouraged to increase the inclusion and advancement of underrepresented groups as one way to enhance the excellence in research and training. For additional guidance, applicants should refer to
You must submit the LOI and the full application by the deadline dates. NSERC will screen all LOIs and full applications to ensure they are complete and adhere to program requirements and objectives. If your LOI or full application does not meet all program requirements, it will be rejected.
A multidisciplinary selection committee from academic and non-academic organizations (such as private-sector, public-sector or not-for-profit organizations) will review the applications. The members may be informed in their assessment by reports from external reviewers. NSERC reserves the right to select the most appropriate review process.
The merit of your application is evaluated using the following four equally weighted criteria. The proposal must address all the listed points (criteria and sub-criteria) to be considered for funding. For this initiative, alignment with the objectives and/or research topics will be assessed as part of the relevance and outcomes criteria.
- Significance of the intended outcomes and of the economic, social and/or environmental benefits for Canada
- Originality of the research to address the topic and the potential for generating new scientific knowledge
- Extent to which the strategy to apply the research results is likely to achieve the intended outcomes
- Alignment with the objectives and/or research topics of the initiative
- Appropriateness of the partnership to achieve the intended outcomes; leveraging of different types of partner organizations and the integration of their unique perspectives and knowledge in the project, as appropriate
- Clarity of each partner organization’s role in the collaboration with respect to defining the challenge, co-designing and implementing the research, and using the results to achieve the desired outcomes
- Appropriateness of the level of in-kind contributions from each partner organization
- Clarity of the objectives and deliverables; appropriateness of the scope and size of planned activities to achieve the expected outcomes; justification for the planned expenditures
- Appropriateness of the identified indicators and methods for monitoring progress during the project and for assessing outcomes after the project
- Appropriateness of academic researchers’ expertise, and that found within the partner organizations, both for carrying out the planned research activities and in mentoring trainees
- Opportunities for enriched training experiences for research trainees (undergraduates, graduates, postdoctoral fellows) to develop relevant research skills as well as professional skills such as leadership, communication, collaboration and entrepreneurship
- Consideration of equity, diversity and inclusion in the training plan (for guidance, consult the
Equity, diversity and inclusion in your training plan document)
Since cash contributions from partner organizations are not required, they are not taken into account when assessing the appropriateness of the level of contributions from each partner organization. Only in-kind contributions are taken into consideration.
NSERC uses established
In the case where your proposal involves one or more partner organizations from the private sector (including industrial associations and producer groups), as well as when they participate alongside other partner organizations from the public and/or not-for-profit sectors, NSERC reviews the
NSERC’s funding decision takes into consideration the merit evaluation as well as the assessment of potential risks for Canada’s national security, when applicable. NSERC may prioritize the funding of interdisciplinary projects.
NSERC uses the merit indicator ratings assigned to applications to select proposals for funding on a competitive basis. Decisions stemming from the national security risk assessment are based on the risks identified and the mitigation measures proposed.
Decisions will be communicated by the end of March 2024.
If your Alliance Missions grant application is approved for funding, you will receive an award letter, and you must adhere to the
Your award letter will indicate the start date of your project. NSERC will normally transfer your grant funds to your university within 30 days of that start date.
NSERC recommends that you and your university follow best practices by signing a research agreement that defines the intellectual property rights and obligations of all the partner organizations involved in your research project. The agreement must be aligned with
Note:
- NSERC claims no rights of ownership to any intellectual property generated through projects funded by Alliance Missions grants
- NSERC’s policy on intellectual property stipulates that each of your students must maintain their right to defend their thesis without delays or impediments
- All participants, including any trainees, should consult this policy to ensure that they are aware of their rights and obligations
You must acknowledge NSERC support in any communications or presentations about the research supported by your Alliance Missions grant.
You must report regularly on how you use the funds from your grant, the activities you carry out during your funded project and the outcomes of this project. You will be informed of reporting requirements upon receiving your award letter.
Subsequent instalments of your grant depend on your adherence to all conditions specified in the
You must notify NSERC
- if any of your partner organizations no longer actively play a role in the project and support it through in-kind contributions, as committed to in the application
- if any of your partner organizations leave the project—in this respect, during the entire project, you must have at least one partner organization whose cash contributions would be recognized for cost-sharing, had there been any required
If you and your partner organizations fail to provide requested feedback, your subsequent applications may be denied.
NSERC automatically provides an extension period of one year for using the grant funds. This extension period allows you to complete your research activities planned for within the specified term of your grant.
Consult the
Email:
Toll free: 1-855-275-2861
Alliance Missions grants are intended to provide support for research activities that will:
- advance Canadian knowledge, models, processes, tools and technologies to optimize efficiency, minimize environmental impacts, and/or support data-driven decisions along domestic critical mineral value chains, from exploration to recycling (e.g., geological and economic modelling of critical mineral deposits, flowsheets, life-cycle analyses, etc.); and/or
- develop efficient options to advance a domestic circular economy with less reliance on primary mineral resources through mine reclamation and/or critical mineral recycling or reprocessing (e.g., mining and industrial waste, end-of-life products, etc.); and/or
- support the development of best practices in technology, innovation and collaborative ventures (e.g., best practices to advance vertical integration across the sector, etc.).
| Year | Applicant | Institution | Project title | Funding amount | Term (years) | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Ansdell, Kevin | University of Saskatchewan | Life cycle assessment of critical minerals in a copper-zinc system | $1,162,800 | 3 | Global transitions toward clean energy systems, advanced technologies, and novel materials are rapidly increasing demand for critical minerals. Volcanic-hosted massive sulfide (VMS) deposits are an important source of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in Canada and globally. These deposits can also contain other critical minerals, including cobalt, nickel, gallium, tellurium, germanium, indium, bismuth, and tin, which are often not recovered due to economic constraints or technical limitations. Improving understanding of the distribution of critical minerals in VMS deposits and associated historical mine wastes has potential to improve value chains and increase supply, by supporting exploration activities, informing mineral processing, improving waste management, and enhancing environmental performance. The research will focus on VMS deposits in the Hanson Lake area, Saskatchewan, in the western part of Precambrian Flin Flon belt, one the most Cu-Zn-rich regions in the world. This area includes historical and active exploration targets (McIlvenna Bay, Bigstone), and historical tailings and waste rock deposits (Western Nuclear Mine) accessible for sampling, and existing environmental data to assess long-term environmental impacts. The project will be led by Ansdell and Lindsay, who have complementary expertise in mineral deposit geology and environmental geochemistry, respectively. It will involve both industry (Foran Mining) and government (SK Ministry of Environment, and Energy and Resources) partners, who will provide significant in-kind contributions, such as support for field work and sampling, access to sample drill core, and data, and expertise to help guide research and supervise highly qualified personnel. In addition, for the first time with an NSERC-project, the Saskatchewan First Nations Natural Resource Centre of Excellence will be involved in developing two-way conversations with Indigenous communities to help guide and use this research. The goal of this project will be to provide new constraints on the evaluation of critical metals through the entire life cycle of a VMS system, which could be used anywhere in Canada and globally. |
| 2023 | Aranas, Clodualdo | University of New Brunswick | Rare-earth-free permanent magnets with high energy density for electric vehicles | $1,300,000 | 3 | The proposed project aims to develop a sustainable alternative to rare-earth metals used in electric vehicle permanent magnets by focusing on a promising rare-earth-free candidate known as tetrataenite L10-FeNi phase. To circumvent the impossible kinetic requirements imposed by natural tetrataenite formation in meteorites through ultraslow cooling after millions of years, this project pioneers a strategic combination of alloy engineering, modern metallurgy, and thermomechanical treatments to replicate this structure in cast FeNi alloys. Our approach seeks to overcome the diffusion constraint with an out-of-the-box approach by investigating the viability of modifying the atomic arrangement, optimizing the material texture, generating mechanical driving forces, and strategic application of heat treatment. Developed in collaboration with Dana Incorporated, an industry leader in automotive electrification, the project ensures that the resulting manufacturing scheme is not only scientifically robust but also practical, scalable and aligned with Canada's Critical Mineral Strategy. Focused on the 'downstream' segment of the critical minerals' value chain, this initiative also aligns with Canada's net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target by 2050. By capitalizing on Canada's significant nickel production, especially in Manitoba and Ontario, the project supports domestic circular economy and mitigates risks related to geopolitical uncertainties affecting rare-earth metals. The project is a tripartite collaboration between the University of New Brunswick, Dana Incorporated, and CanmetMATERIALS, Natural Resources Canada (CMAT). Dana's expertise in automotive electrification ensures rapid commercialization, while CMAT will facilitate a seamless transition from research to production lines of metal manufacturers. By developing rare-earth-free permanent magnets, this project aims to enhance Canada's EV manufacturing capabilities, promote sustainability, and fulfill national environmental goals. This project aligns with the program's emphasis on technologies supporting domestic value chains and advancing commercial readiness. |
| 2023 | Archibald, Donnelly | St. Francis Xavier University | The origin of lithium resources in southern Newfoundland | $1,322,000 | 3 | Lithium is essential to global carbon-free energy technology, auto manufacturing, and technology industries and is prioritized in the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy for its potential to drive Canadian economic growth. Recent lithium discoveries in southern Newfoundland have stimulated new exploration efforts. However, fundamental aspects of the geology of these lithium resources remain unknown, including their mineralogy, age(s), extent, structural controls, lithium sources, and economic potential. Our main research objective is to better understand the geological controls on the formation of lithium-rich rock bodies in southern Newfoundland to better inform mining and exploration targeting practices and promote lithium discovery. Addressing this primary objective requires a multidisciplinary and holistic investigation into (i) the processes controlling the transport of lithium from its source to host rocks, (ii) the magmatic emplacement processes that resulted in the formation of the lithium-rich rocks, (iii) the lithium source(s), (iv) structure and deformation that controls the present expression of lithium-rich rocks, and (v) the character and extent of associated metamorphic aureoles. This collaborative endeavor includes an academic alliance between StFX University and Memorial University of Newfoundland, three partner organizations in industry, and the provincial government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Partners will contribute access to samples and field sites, resources, and expertise related to regional geology and bedrock lithium mineralization. We aim to advance exploration efficiency and effectiveness with new geological models through targeted research on the lithium mineralizing systems with complementary studies on the origins and migration of mineralizing-fluids, mineral chemistry, regional stratigraphic evolution, regional deformation, and Appalachian plate tectonic models. This project will train several highly qualified personnel in field methods, data collection techniques, and scientific communication - highly sought after skills required for qualified geoscientists to have capacity to undertake mineral exploration and geoscience research on critical mineral systems in Canada. |
| 2023 | Beauchemin, Diane | Queen's University | Swift analysis methods to support the development of mines of critical minerals | $397,410 | 3 | The services of commercial laboratories are required throughout the development of a mine of critical minerals. This includes the analysis of: a variety of samples collected during grassroots exploration campaigns, drill cores to map out the ore body and determine where to mine, and mine tailings and effluent discharges to mitigate environmental risks. Currently, each solid sample is pulverized and usually put in solution through treatment with several acids. The latter step may take several days, depending on resilience of the sample to acid attack. This process is widely adopted because it results in homogeneous solutions that can be correctly analyzed with good precision if nothing interferes during the analysis. Unfortunately, the analysis technique is susceptible to interferences from sample components in large concentration. Furthermore, the numerous steps involved in the dissolution process may lead to contamination or the loss of important components, resulting in incorrect results and requiring a repeat of the whole process. All these problems delay the release of results to customers (one month is not unusual). Swifter methods are required to provide results within a day or two of receiving samples so that, for example, people performing exploration may take more samples in the area of suspected deposits to confirm their presence or move elsewhere if no deposit is indicated. The time window for such exploration is limited, as it is difficult with snow and ice on the ground. The aim of this project is to develop methods that enable the direct analysis of solids, mine tailings, effluent discharges, etc., without any sample preparation step, thereby avoiding all the aforementioned problems. One approach involves heating the sample in a small furnace while transporting vaporized components to the instrument for detection. With this approach, a sample can be analyzed in 80-100 seconds. Another approach involves the use of a laser for bulk analysis, depth profiling or mapping of the surface composition of a sample. Both approaches have been used mostly by researchers and require improvements to make them robust enough for implementation in a commercial laboratory. |
| 2023 | Benoit, Michael | University of Waterloo | Laser cladding of nickel superalloy Inconel 686 for resilient zinc processing infrastructure | $452,250 | 3 | Mining and mineral processing are vital to the Canadian economy. Teck Resources' Trail operation is one of the largest zinc processing and refining facilities in the world, making this operation an essential part of our domestic mining sector. The refinement of zinc-ores to metals requires the use of harsh corrosive chemicals and high temperatures, both of which can be detrimental to the metallic components and systems used to refine the ores. By example, chlorides, sulphuric acid, and high temperatures can lead to rapid corrosion of steel components. Therefore, the surfaces of mineral processing equipment are usually coated with a material that possesses improved high temperature and corrosion properties, such as nickel superalloys. These coatings are usually applied to the surface using traditional arc welding technologies, depositing a relatively thick layer but also imparting considerable heat and stress to the material. Moreover, although many different superalloys are available, a select few are often used (e.g., Inconel 625). Therefore, this research project will investigate the development of higher performance coatings that have less deleterious impacts on the underlying equipment. A laser will be used in place of a welding arc to melt the superalloy material (i.e., laser cladding), in order to melt less underlying base metal, impart less residual stresses in the material, and produce coatings with less surface roughness. Moreover, Inconel 686 will be investigated as a replacement to Inconel 625 for improved corrosion resistance. Laser clad samples will be fabricated using Inconel 686 and will be assessed using advanced characterization methods (e.g., measure coating thickness, determine the extent of melting of the base metal). The laser clad samples will be compared with samples produced by arc welding. Moreover, the corrosion performance of laser clad samples will be evaluated using advanced corrosion testing equipment. Successful laser cladding of Inconel 686 will result in more resilient mining infrastructure that needs less regular cleaning and repair, and improved operating efficiencies, all of which ultimately lead to a cleaner and more competitive Canadian mining sector. |
| 2023 | Blewett, Tamzin | University of Alberta | Assessing the ecological risk associated with critical mineral extraction in Northern ecosystems | $1,032,319 | 3 | The world is experiencing a biodiversity crisis, enhanced by human induced -climate change. A continued pattern of overexploitation of natural resources, environmental contamination, habitat destruction and invasive species all contribute to an increasing hostile environment. One of the most at-risk environments are the polar regions (i.e., Canadian Arctic) where climate-related changes will affect these regions disproportionately. Not only are the rates of warming greatest in these settings, but they will also be faced with a number of unique challenges associated with a rapidly changing world. The reduction in sea ice in the Arctic will open up areas to new resource exploitation, increases in shipping traffic combined with snow and permafrost melt, will cause an increased exposure to legacy and emerging contaminants with potential devastating effects. Currently, many critical minerals (e.g., Copper, Nickel, Zinc) used in green technologies are extracted from northern regions. Many metal mines are present or under development in the Arctic regions of Canada, Alaska, Iceland, Greenland, Siberia and Scandinavia. At present, Arctic ecosystems and the organisms within these habitats remain poorly characterized and understood in terms of physiology and reaction to chemical pollutants. Additionally, the unique water chemistry (e.g., low ionic concentrations and low dissolved organic carbon) and low temperatures can represent a challenge to traditional bioremediation strategies of mining wastes. Assessment of risk posed by critical minerals in northern regions is limited by our relatively poor knowledge of toxicological consequences of critical metals in arctic habitats. Thus, the goal of this research is two-fold: i) to assess the exposure and effects of critical metals to Arctic relevant organisms under current and future warming scenarios, and ii) to evaluate northern bioremediation techniques with toxicity testing using Arctic relevant organisms. This project will work directly with industry and government partnerships (i.e., Nickel Producers Environmental Research Association, International Copper Association (Copper Alliance), Cobalt Institute, International Zinc Association, Canadian High Arctic Research Station) to facilitate development and processes for cleaner extraction. |
| 2023 | Crowe, Sean | The University of British Columbia | Applying genomics to the discovery of critical minerals under cover | $535,177 | 3 | Canada is a global leader in contributing critical minerals and metals to a resource hungry world. The generational transition to a low carbon economy is enormous and Canada's mineral endowment can be a major contributor, particularly for copper, which is in increasing demand for our electrified future. Here, the discovery and development of new resources can have by far the greatest impact-well beyond improvements to processing and recycling, though the latter remain important. There are enormous challenges, however, in the future discovery of new copper resources throughout Canada. Numerous mineral deposits that contain copper remain undiscovered as they are covered by forests and buried beneath overburden such as soils, glacial materials, and permafrost. These copper resources mostly occur as porphyry copper-type deposits throughout the Canadian Cordillera (BC & Yukon), but are concealed by 10s of metres of overburden. Innovative, multi-disciplinary exploration strategies and tools that more effectively and efficiently detect and delineate buried copper mineralization are required. Microbes in soils above such mineralization provide exciting new opportunities that leverage geomicrobiological knowledge and advances in DNA sequencing technologies. Geomicrobiological techniques for the exploration and discovery of buried mineral resources are emerging with strong potential as "through-cover" mineral exploration techniques. Our previous research established that microbial communities from soils can detect buried diamondiferous kimberlites and porphyry copper mineralization. The uptake of this technique by the mineral exploration industry will depend upon the creation of soil microbial community databases of both mineral-associated and background soil microbial communities. Therefore, we propose to fingerprint the soil microbial communities above known porphyry copper deposits and in a range of ecosystem-based representative background soils from areas of strong porphyry-copper mineral potential. Furthermore, we will transform this data into tools that can be utilized by the mineral exploration industry to increase critical mineral discovery in Canada. |
| 2023 | Dang, Duc Huy | Trent University | The mixed blessings of rare earth elements as critical minerals | $1,500,000 | 3 | The partnership on "The mixed blessings of rare earth elements as critical minerals" aims to investigate the mechanisms by which rare earth elements (REEs), as priority critical minerals, affect Canadian terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. We first will use a combination of laboratory and field-based approaches to investigate how these elements affect terrestrial and aquatic organisms. We will also develop standardized toxicity tests for applications in environmental and regulatory frameworks. The generated knowledge further sets the cornerstone to develop novel and responsible REE-based applications for sustainable growth of the biotechnology and agroforestry sectors. These applications will be based on potential stimulatory effects REEs have on organisms at low concentrations for biofuel or improving fertilizer use efficiency. The ultimate objective is to improve the circularity of REEs by sourcing REE-rich by-products for safe and sustainable applications at real-life scales. The team is supported by the Ministère de l'Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs of Québec, various municipalities in Eastern Canada, industrial partners with activities across the country and not-for-profit partners active in watershed management for water quality and forestry. This partnership expands the potential end use of the research by facilitating the interactions between academic, industrial, government and not-for-profit partners. Each provides essential fundamental, technical and applied knowledge to ensure that the outcomes contribute to advancing Canadian knowledge, tools and technologies to minimize environmental impacts, creating added values via novel and responsible applications while supporting the decisional process along REE value chains. |
| 2023 | Demers, Isabelle | Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue | Valorization of tailings from a graphite mine in Quebec | $540,000 | 3 | The Lac des Iles graphite mine is located near Mont-Laurier, Quebec and is operated by Northern Graphite Inc. This company wants to assess the potential for valorizing the tailings from this mine so as to encourage reuse of waste materials while facilitating future restoration of this site. The Intersand Canada Group, also based in Quebec, is a designer, manufacturer and major exporter of cat litter and wants to procure raw materials and waste materials from mines in Canada. The use of mine tailings in cat litter has not yet been evaluated, but the proximity and availability of the tailings from the Lac des Iles mine make them a very interesting potential source of raw materials. The proposed research project involves a collaboration between these two industry partners and the IRME (institute for research on mining and the environment) at the Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT). The primary objective of the project is to assess the potential for valorizing tailings from a graphite mine for off-site applications, with an emphasis on their use as a raw material in the production of cat litter. The specific objectives are as follows: 1) Determine the possibilities for valorizing the tailings currently being produced, as well as those that will result from the planned expansion of the mine; 2) assess the geochemical behaviour of tailings subjected to various leaching agents, including simulated cat urine; 3) assess the performance of various formulations of cat litter composed of graphite-mining waste. This project perfectly matches the criteria of the Alliance Missions grants call, particularly with regards to research activities that will minimize environmental impacts and develop options to advance a circular economy, through the reuse of graphite-production waste materials to manufacture a consumer product in Canada. Northern Graphite Inc. will provide these materials, while Intersand will provide the information needed to conduct tests to determine how well the litter produced with them performs in comparison with litter produced from virgin mineral raw materials. Ultimately, this project will lead to the development of a new avenue for valorizing tailings from a Quebec graphite mine to manufacture cat litter in Quebec, in the context of a circular local economy. |
| 2023 | Demopoulos, George | McGill University | Development of sustainable direct recycling and upcycling technologies for spent Li-ion battery cathodes | $1,397,400 | 3 | With the onset of the rapid change from internal combustion engine (ICE) to electric vehicle (EV) in the automotive industry, the demand on raw materials that make up a Li-ion battery (LIB) is surging exponentially creating severe supply issues for critical elements like, Li, Ni and Co. With the stress and uncertainty of securing the critical minerals, predicted price increases in lithium and nickel could jeopardize the economics in EV battery production. Recycling could help alleviate the demands on critical virgin materials. Currently retired LIBs from electric vehicles are treated using energy- and chemical- intensive industrial processes, pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy, that focus only on the battery "pay" metals. A new emerging alternative is direct recycling, which aims at regenerating the cathode active material in a non-destructive way. This proposal is a collaboration of McGill University and NRC along with industry partners and Canadian Light Source building on a recently undertaken preliminary direct recycling project. More specifically, it is the overall goal of this research to design and develop wholly sustainable Li-ion battery recycling solutions incorporating circular economy and green processing concepts for application to different cathode chemistries as per market requirements. Early LIB generations include for example LMO and NMC111 cathode chemistries which no longer satisfy today's EV performance requirements. These old chemistries can be upcycled to convert into new generation chemistry like Ni-rich NMCs that the market is shifting to, and our research aims at developing sustainable processes to accomplish this task. Towards this end, we plan to employ life cycle assessment (LCA) tools in our process design and seek on re-introducing to value chain spent cathodes after proper re-functionalization via innovative and scalable material structure transformations with low carbon footprint. |
| 2023 | Diak, Bradley | Queen's University | Bringing Canadian rare earth elements into wrought aluminum alloy production stream for advanced structural and electrical applications | $1,437,378 | 3 | Rare earth elements (REE), i.e. scandium (Sc) and cerium (Ce) to lutetium (Lu), and aluminum (Al) are defined by Canada as critical minerals. Ce and other secondary rare earth elements (REEs) are by-products of extraction, with few large-scale applications. Canada has potentially 15 million tonnes of rare earth oxides in the ground including Sc, which if extracted leaves about half as unusable and effectively increases the cost of the other valuable REE's. Al, unlike REEs, is not mined domestically, and our expertise is in primary production. Al is a low-density material with excellent electrical properties making it ideal for structural and electrical applications. Al has strong recycling attributes with up to 10 times reduction in CO2 production per kg metal compared to primary smelting. Adding <0.5 wt.% Sc enhances the mechanical and corrosion properties of high technology aluminum alloys, but at $10K/kg, Sc's cost limits its use, driving interest in find a cheaper replacement from the secondary REEs. Al alloys containing ~10% Ce are more castable, but higher density Ce limits light-weight applications. Adding Ce to wrought sheet Al alloys made by the direct chill (DC) process route develops large Ce particles that reduce mechanical properties. In contrast, <1wt.% of Ce reduces corrosion and improves electrical conductivity by removing impurity elements from solid solution such as iron (Fe), and modifies the crystalline texture to make Al more receptive to etch pitting important for battery electrodes. Fe pick-up in Al recycling is a major issue and, so, what is currently waste Ce has potential to extend use in electrical applications. An alternative and more energy efficient process to the DC cast route is thin strip casting where faster cooling rates can prevent large intermetallics forming in Al-REE alloys which will increase strength, conductivity and corrosion resistance. Partnering with Ucore Rare Metals, Kingston Process Metallurgy, CastTechnology and CanmetMATERIALS, researchers at Queen's will investigate the feasibility to develop a domestic circular economy using secondary REEs with aluminum alloys for advanced automotive, aerospace and energy storage applications. |
| 2023 | Dixon, David | The University of British Columbia | Development of a novel technology for the recovery of copper from tailings | $300,000 | 3 | Copper is the most important metal for electrification of the world economy, and chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) is the most important copper mineral, representing about 80% of the world's copper ore. However, virtually all of the world's high-grade chalcopyrite ores have been exploited - the average grade of copper ores being mined today is less than 0.5% Cu, and steadily decreasing. As concentration and smelting become less viable, hydrometallurgical copper recovery in the form of bioleaching, solvent extraction and electrowinning (SX-EW) must play a much larger role. However, bioleaching has not been widely applied to chalcopyrite ores, because chalcopyrite is very resistant to leaching. A new technology developed by the applicant, known as Jetti, exploits the catalytic properties of certain organic compounds with thiocarbonyl functional groups to bioleach copper from chalcopyrite in bioheaps. Jetti technology has recently been demonstrated commercially, and is poised to provide access to millions of tonnes of copper stranded in low-grade ore resources for which no viable extraction technology previously existed. However, another potentially important source of copper has received very little attention: flotation tailings. Tailings are low-grade material separated from copper concentrates which is stored in tailings dams at copper mines all over the world. There are about 130 Billion tonnes of copper tailings currently being stored. If their average copper grade is 0.1%, this represents 130 Million tonnes of copper - roughly seven times annual global production and enough for 1.5 Billion electric cars. Currently, no extraction technology exists for these materials. We propose to investigate a novel catalytic alkaline system for leaching copper from tailings, and to apply this new process to columns of waste rock coated with tailings paste, and in agitated vessels, using a very promising three-pronged chemical approach which has recently been discovered, and which for which a preliminary patent application is being filed. |
| 2023 | Dollé, Mickael | Université de Montréal | Circular economy of graphite anode for Li-ion batteries: sustainable approaches to turn old into new | $750,006 | 3 | Li-ion batteries (LIB), used widely in electronic devices, are vital for electric vehicles. With the growth of EVs, demand for LIB will surge in the coming years. LIB cells comprise ca. 31wt% cathode active material and 22wt% anode active material (graphite). Due to their high recycling values, most studies have focused on recovery of the elements Li, Ni, Co, Mn from spent LIB cathodes. Graphite, however, has relatively lower economic value so few studies have been devoted to its recycling and reuse despite its classification as a critical/strategic mineral by US and EU governments. In June 2023, the EU Parliament approved new rules for battery design, production and waste management that extend producer responsibility, requiring due diligence of supply chains to assess social and environmental risks, with a focus on sourcing Co, Li, Ni and natural graphite (which is mined, unlike synthetic graphite produced from fossil fuels heated at 3000 °C). The recycling, recovery and reuse of graphite can therefore offer a number of economic, environmental and health benefits if carried out sustainably. Recycling graphite presents a number of challenges. LIB recycling is based mainly on pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes. The former uses graphite as a reductive agent to recover cathode metals, resulting in graphite being destroyed. In the latter, graphite is obtained as a by-product and is not adequately recycled, so does not meet battery industry standards due to residual metallic impurities and structural defects. Leaching can remove most of the remaining impurities but must be carried out in a sustainable manner (i.e., not generate harmful waste) without introducing structural defects that require costly, high-temperature treatment. The team of Université de Montréal and Nouveau Monde Graphite, which recently started collaborating on this challenge, aims to develop an environmentally friendly hydrometallurgical process, combined with low-temperature treatment post leaching, to regenerate graphite for reuse in new LIBs. This approach opens the door to integrating a circular economy for graphite, making it possible to meet the new regulations on production and waste management of all types of LIB. |
| 2023 | Estep, Donald | Simon Fraser University | Joint Stochastic Inversion for Data-Informed Low-Impact Mining of Critical Minerals | $638,530 | 3 | Our project will advance Canadian knowledge, models, and processes to optimize efficiency, minimize environmental impacts, and support data-driven decisions to search deeper under the Earth's surface to determine and describe new deposits of critical minerals including nickel, copper, cobalt, and zinc with high precision. Specifically, our project will tackle the coherent integration of precise subsurface data from a variety of sources, and objective uncertainty estimates, via computationally economical statistical methods, that integrate and assess disparate data to solve the geologically constrained geophysical data inverse problem for resource targeting for critical minerals. We will develop, test, and implement novel inversion and modeling algorithms based on Bayesian statistical methods for solving Stochastic Inverse Problems that reduce reliance on non-physical regularization, unrealistically precise prior knowledge of deposit characteristics, and limiting assumptions about uncertainties. The research will be conducted by an interdisciplinary team of geophysicists and statisticians along with postdoctoral fellows at Simon Fraser University and industrial partner Ideon Technologies. Ideon Technologies is focused on helping mining companies to identify geophysical anomalies with greater resolution and clarity beneath the Earth's surface with minimal environmental impact - building, testing, and deploying subsurface intelligence solutions that will help precision-target deposits, accurately map and monitor mine operations. The academic team and Ideon have a strong established record of close and productive collaboration. The proposed research project will support Ideon's product roadmap and advance their novel subsurface intelligence ambitions. |
| 2023 | Fayek, Mostafa | University of Manitoba | The formation of critical metal deposits in Manitoba: implications for exploration and minimizing environmental impact. | $1,497,950 | 3 | On March 11, 2021, the Government of Canada published its list of critical elements also referred to as critical minerals. The list includes 31 minerals considered integral to the Canadian economy, all of which are found in Canada. Canada's Critical Minerals Strategy, released in December 2022, identified six minerals (lithium, graphite, nickel, cobalt, copper and rare earth elements) initially prioritized for their potential to spur Canadian economic growth and their necessity as inputs for priority supply chains. More recently (summer 2023) the province of Manitoba published its critical mineral strategy prioritizing four critical minerals (lithium, copper, nickel and silica). We have assembled a critical metals consortium (CMC) consisting of researchers from two institutions (Fayek and Camacho, University of Manitoba, and Hollings, Lakehead University) and two industry partners (New Age Metals and Grid Metals) to develop novel exploration models for lithium mineralizing systems in Manitoba. The proposed research will generate transformative knowledge on the important physical and geochemical interactions underpinning the formation of these deposits that can be used to improve exploration strategies. This approach will reduce costs and improve exploration strategies, especially in sensitive environments such as Northern Canada. The expected outcomes include: (1) a method for industry to distinguish between barren and mineralized systems, (2) an improved tectonic framework (e.g., identify high priority structural targets) for these critical mineral deposits that can be applied to under-explored regions, (3) an increased number of HQP with exploration and research skills in the targeted areas, such as economic geology and mineral exploration, and (4) transfer of knowledge and expertise related to critical mineral deposits to industry proponents. The outcome of this research will provide a set of guidelines for the exploration of these types of deposits in Canada and abroad. |
| 2023 | Gagnon, Joel | University of Windsor | Toward an integrated genetic model for the MacIlvenna Bay Cu-Zn-Au Deposit, Northern Saskatchewan | $438,000 | 3 | The McIlvenna Bay Cu-Zn-Au deposit is situated in east-central Saskatchewan and comprises multiple zones of massive and stockwork style sulphide mineralization. The deposit represents the largest occurrence of volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) Cu mineralization in the Flin Flon greenstone belt, with probable reserves of 691 million pounds of Cu and 1.4 billion pounds of Zn. Notwithstanding previous assessment activities, little is known about the system(s) and process(es) responsible for ore formation. Current interpretations based on whole rock lithogeochemistry provide insights into primary lithologic compositions, petrogenesis, and tectonic setting but are insufficient to characterize ore-forming processes, and only preliminary structural observations have been made thus far. Available evidence indicates, however, that secondary (e.g., metamorphic, hydrothermal, structural) processes may have caused modification of primary VMS mineralization and resulted in metal enrichment/redistribution including: heterogenous Cu and Zn values; variable ore metal ratios; association of ore with hydrothermal alteration (chlorite and sericite) devoid of metamorphic fabrics; and association of ore with relatively late, cross-cutting structures. Development of an integrated model for deposit formation requires: 1) detailed large (hand specimen to face/back) scale mineralogical, textural, chemical, and paragenetic characterization of representative ore and associated alteration zones to establish the nature and relative timing of ore-forming stage(s), and 2) detailed small (face/back to mine scale) lithologic and structural mapping, petrography, and chemical characterization of representative ore and associated alteration zones to establish primary lithologies, structure, ore/alteration/deformation related compositional/mass/volume changes, and relative timing. The proposed research will be conducted in collaboration with Foran Mining Corporation (Foran). Foran will provide access to McIlvenna Bay project property and certain company information, as well as provide technical oversight and input into proposed projects. |
| 2023 | Galli, Federico | Université de Sherbrooke | Use of a hydrothermal process to concentrate strategic metals from the urban mine | $892,485 | 3 | Electronic waste constitutes a veritable anthropic deposit of strategic metals (Cu, Al, Zn, Sn, Pd), and their recycling and concentration can have a significant positive impact on the Canadian economy. However, this waste also contains halogenated plastic resins that can form toxic degradation products and thus constitute an economic and environmental obstacle. Prior extraction of the organic compounds from electronic waste would facilitate recycling of the metals by the hydrometallurgical process offered by the Quebec-based industry partner, Enim. The proposed project would thus seek to develop an innovative process for using green solvents in the supercritical state to concentrate the metals contained in electronic waste. This process will liquefy the organic, halogenated materials, which can then be valorized as oils and salts. The purified solid residue, with its high metal content, will be used as a raw material in the Enim process. Supported by Seneca, a Montreal engineering consulting firm, Enim will collaborate on this project with Professor Galli, an early-career researcher who is an expert in chemical processes. Two Enim process engineers (Eng., Ph.D.) will support training of the highly qualified personnel recruited for this project, by offering internships at the partner organizations and by making Enim’s analytical laboratory available to support the project. This project will help to: a) advance knowledge and methods by exploring an alternative approach to extracting strategic metals by revalorizing scrapped printed circuits, b) develop a more sustainable, circular process for concentrating critical metals, c) develop the potential of the hydrothermal method with a Quebec company so as to maximize the technology transfer, d) train highly qualified personnel in recycling processes that offer alternatives to traditional pyrometallurgical approaches, e) mitigate the environmental impacts of electronic waste. This project fits perfectly into the Critical Minerals Strategy by proposing to develop, together with our industry partner, an innovative process for recovering from electronic waste and concentrating several metals that are priorities for Canada. |
| 2023 | Gibson, Charlotte | Queen's University | The beneficiation of lithium minerals from low-grade deposits | $772,900 | 3 | With the demand for lithium expected to outpace supply in coming years, governments are incentivizing the rapid development of their lithium resources. Most of Canada's lithium is contained in hard-rock deposits which are commonly processed using flotation. The semi-soluble and non-selective nature of the reagents (tall oil fatty acids) used in lithium mineral flotation have led to industrial challenges like process instability, particularly during plant commissioning. Additionally, when flotation is used to process low-grade ores, process performance is typically lower than for the flotation of high-grade ores. The proposed project will employ experimental and modelling studies to quantify the potential for processing low-grade lithium deposits in the Canadian context and to establish engineering design parameters to enable tailored equipment design for lithium mineral processing plants. The research will be led by Dr. Charlotte Gibson of Queen's University in collaboration with Rock Tech Lithium and Primero Group Americas. Throughout the project, Rock Tech Lithium will provide ore samples and technical guidance, and Primero Group Americas will lend lithium process plant engineering expertise. The program will employ laboratory flotation testing, mineral surface characterization studies, and greenhouse gas emissions modelling to achieve three primary outcomes: (1) The generation of fundamental knowledge related to the flotation of lithium minerals from low -grade deposits, (2) the development of engineering design parameters - specifically kinetic rates constants - for lithium bearing ores with varying mineralogy, and (3) the quantification of the potential for the responsible development of low-grade lithium deposits in Canada. |
| 2023 | Gilmore, Colin | University of Manitoba | Advances in Time-Domain Electromagnetic Surveys for Critical Minerals | $682,212 | 3 | Canada has a vast wealth of the minerals and materials that are needed to drive the modern economy. The goal of this project is to develop Canadian-made sensors, algorithms, and processes to further the exploration and development of Canada's critical minerals, thus growing Canada's economy. All of these technologies relate to Time-Domain Electromagnetic (TD-EM) surveys. This proposal brings together one of Canada's leading earth exploration companies, EarthEx, along with three researchers at the University of Manitoba's Electromagnetic Imaging Lab (EIL). EarthEx provides acquisition, analysis and inversion of geophsyical exploration data, and the EIL is a world-leader in the creation and industrial deployment of electromagnetic imaging systems, including hardware, software, and associated imaging algorithms. In particular, this project will focus on four techinical problems: - Design of new TD-EM hardware including transmission and receiver hardware - Signal processing improvements in TD-EM surveys - Machine-learning based parametric inversion to replace human-operator based inversion - Advances in general purpose inversion in TD-EM, including machine learning approaches. Each of these technical advances is a close fit between the expertise of the EIL and EarthEx, and will drive Canadian technology and knowledge in exploration for, and maximize exisiting mines of critical minerals, including mines for, cobalt, nickel, graphite, and copper. Through these projects, the EIL will train HQP, giving them in-demand industry skills in geophysical interpretation, electronics design and fabrication, algorithm development, signal processing, and inversion/imaging. |
| 2023 | Goward, Gillian | McMaster University | Assessing the Circular Economy for Endangered Elements Needed in Lithium Ion Batteries: Advanced Characterization of Recycled Materials and LIB Performance | $1,110,000 | 3 | Our team brings together established materials scientists with particular expertise in world-class characterization strategies that are suitable for characterizing the solid-state materials that make up today's lithium ion batteries (LIBs). We aim to apply these techniques to recycled materials including the critical minerals lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite. Our team has a strong track record of collaboration and co-publication in the area of LIB materials, as well as successful industrial partnerships with companies including General Motors, Salient Energy, GBatteries and most recently, Li-Cycle. There is an urgent need for recycling strategies that recover valuable minerals utilized in LIBs. Characterization of recycled battery materials and their performance, evaluated at the molecular scale, are the primary focus of this proposal. The newly formed McMaster team will be known as Re-Batt-CARE, for Recycled-Battery Characterization for Resource-Recovery Efficiency. Materials provided by Li-Cycle from their resource-recovery streams will be characterized by the the Re-Batt-CARE team using methods including electrochemical performance and advanced diffraction, microscopy, tomography, spectroscopy and magnetic resonance. Li-Cycle was founded in Kingston Ontario in 2016 and became a publicly traded company in 2021. Their process is hydrometallurgical and aims to be environmentally friendly, energy efficient, and sustainable. Student in the program will meet regularly for joint-team meetings with our industrial partners through video conference calls, where they will present their recent data. The HQP will be trained in materials science and electrochemistry as well as state-of-the-art characterization strategies. They will have exceptional access to equipment and experts to provide a unique cross-disciplinary integrated training environment. Students may also have the opportunity to spend internships with Li-Cycle and learn about the industrial scale processes necessary to generate the recovered black matter that is the first step in the circular economy of the LIBs. |
| 2023 | Gu, Frank | University of Toronto | Critical Resource Extraction using Sustainable Techniques (CREST) | $1,500,000 | 3 | Toward sustainable mining principles, the Canadian research community and the mining industry are working together to mitigate the environmental and climate change impacts of resource extraction. Large volumes of mining tailings and waste rocks accumulated at mine sites over decades and are considered wastes. These "wastes" contain significant concentrations of critical minerals. e.g., over $27B worth of residual nickel (Ni) is contained in Sudbury tailings stockpiles, non-economical to extract by conventional mining processes. The overarching objective is developing solar catalysis and novel enzymes as a toolset for the future, with the potential to realize sustainable waste valorization/reclamation. This research project is aligned with the Alliance Mission call in that it aims to 1) advance Canadian clean technology to improve economic efficiency (and environmental footprint) to develop untapped critical mineral resources in mine wastes and 2) develop the Canadian circular economy by valorizing mine wastes through sustainable, net zero, passive processes and environmental stewardship. We hypothesize that the combination of passive solar catalysis and microbial remediation has the potential to be a disruptive, economically practical new hydrometallurgical processing toolkit to extract and process critical minerals, especially from sulfidic ores and wastes. This Alliance proposal's primary objective is to innovate catalysts, enzymes, and passive hydrometallurgical methods for extracting minerals from mining waste. Our research in Years 1 & 2 will prioritize Ni extraction from sulfidic wastes. The third year will extend our exploration to copper, cobalt, and rare earth elements. Bringing together an excellent team from academic, corporate, governmental, and mining sectors, this Alliance program seeks to spearhead a Canadian excellence network in passive mining, simultaneously equipping the next generation with specialized skills for managing Canada's invaluable resources. |
| 2023 | Habib, Komal | University of Waterloo | Beyond Lithium: Establishing resource efficient circularity pathways for urban mines of battery materials in Canada | $501,500 | 3 | Li-ion batteries are seen as the powerhouse for a future fossil-free society. However, their large-scale production to meet the ambitious climate goals globally and in Canada, is fraught with potential supply constraints of critical minerals such as lithium (Li), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), and graphite (C). To reduce the increasing risk of potential supply restrictions of critical minerals in the future resulting from a pandemic, extreme environmental conditions, or geopolitical issues; their urban mining is considered a viable solution. This project is aimed at establishing and optimizing various resource efficient circularity pathways for urban mines of critical minerals for batteries in Canada. The underlying objectives are to estimate the current and future size and quality of battery materials' urban mine in Canada; test new recycling technologies in laboratory, specifically vapo-metallurgical approaches to separate Ni and Co from black mass; perform technoeconomic assessment (TEA) and life cycle assessment (LCA) of existing and hypothetical resource circularity pathways; and, propose optimal pathways for resource circularity given their environmental and techno-economic feasibility. This project will develop, and test new recycling methods for environmentally feasible and techno-economically efficient recovery of battery materials from their urban mines. The project team will work in close collaboration with national and international, academic, and industrial partners, to run the laboratory trials, collect data from national and international mining and trade databases, and perform the environmental and techno-economic assessment. Enhanced resource recovery from urban mines will reduce dependency of the industrial sector on imports of critical metals, which will result in lower risk of supply disruptions and the associated implications for society. The project will allow for development of new business opportunities and jobs in Ontario and Canada in the technical and R&D fields of resource recovery and recycling. |
| 2023 | Haelssig, Jan | University of Ottawa | Development of an ultra-high temperature electro-thermal fluidized bed for graphite purification | $649,750 | 3 | Graphite has multiple properties that are attractive to many industrial applications, including lithium-ion batteries where the anode has a relatively large amount of high purity (99.9%+) graphite. Considering lower safety and environmental risks, Canadian mining companies desiring to progress in the graphite value chain are exploring pyrometallurgical processes (up to 2800°C) that sublimate natural, or chemically converted (e.g., via chlorination), impurities in the graphite using renewable energy (e.g., hydroelectric). Fluidized beds, known to this industry for ore refining, can be adapted to purify mined/synthetic graphite via innovative electric resistive heating with in-situ electrodes. For greater commercial implementation, the technology requires reactor and electrodes geometrical optimization along with better knowledge of the impact of the extreme reactive conditions on bed fluid dynamics, electrical and heat transport mechanisms, and impurities removal kinetics. The research goal is thus to experimentally and numerically (via computational fluid dynamics) provide this fundamental knowledge and develop an innovative gas-solid contactor prototype and its mathematical model, which will then be used to refine technical-economic and life cycle analyses of the graphite purification process. Successful research outcomes will have direct impact on Canada's economy and environment considering the federal government's commitment towards an electrical grid and new light vehicles with net-zero emissions. The numerical and experimental campaigns will be highly leveraged by unique equipment, specialized instrumentation and raw materials from our government and industrial partners vertically integrated across the graphite sector. Finally, graduate and undergraduate students will work in a diverse and inclusive environment partaking in the operation of extreme temperature equipment, detailed mathematical modelling and professional communication/interaction with partners for comprehensive training. |
| 2023 | Hassani, Faramarz | McGill University | Innovative Microwave Solutions for Critical Mineral Continuous Excavation and Sustainable Processing | $1,364,000 | 3 | This research aims to revolutionize the mining industry by introducing an innovative approach utilizes microwave-induced heat for controlled fracture in rocks and ore formations, while also improving material separation in recycling processes. Traditional mining methods, e.g. drilling and blasting, are time-consuming and inefficient, and ore processing consumes substantial energy and is prone to wear. Moreover, certain recycling methods can be energy-intensive and economically inefficient. Our primary objective is to equip the industry with the engineering knowledge and tools needed for the next generation of continuous mining machinery. By harnessing microwave technology to initiate fractures in rocks and ores and enhance material separation, we aim to transform the excavation and processing of critical minerals. Anticipated benefits for the Canadian mining include cost reduction, reduced environmental impact, increased productivity, and improved global competitiveness. Our multidisciplinary research team, with expertise in mining, processing, hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, and microwave technology, is at the forefront of investigating and implementing these innovations. Collaborations with industrial partners, i.e., Splendor Titanium, Finkl Steel, and IGS, focus on applying our expertise to extract critical minerals from mines, waste materials and steelmaking byproducts, aligning with circular economy principles and sustainability goals. Microwave technology plays a pivotal role in our approach, enhancing mineral liberation, enabling energy-efficient drying, and repurposing solid leaching residues. We also utilize advanced simulation to improve process productivity and economics. In summary, our research initiative seeks to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and promote sustainability in the mining industry. Through the application of microwave and collaboration with industrial partners, we aim to lead the way towards a more sustainable critical minerals extraction and processing. |
| 2023 | Hickey, Kenneth | The University of British Columbia | Unlocking Canada's sedimentary rock-hosted critical metal potential | $1,466,600 | 3 | A number of critical metals listed in Canada's critical mineral strategy, including zinc, gallium, germanium, indium, uranium and cobalt are enriched in sedimentary rocks. The western Cordillera of Canada and Alaska contain several basins that contain sedimentary rocks of varying age from the Upper Paleoproterozoic to Late Cretaceous. These basins also contain significant deposits of Pb, Zn and Ag, alongside various critical metal byproducts including known Ga, Ge and In, as well as potentially Co and other critical metals. However, the tonnage, grade and ratios of byproduct critical metals to main commodity metals (e.g. Pb, Zn, Ag) vary significantly, which impacts the economic and strategic significance of these critical metal resources. We propose a multi-scale project operating from the basin to mineral scale that seeks to determine: (1) What controls does depositional environment and basin history play on critical metal endowment at the basin scale? (2) What controls the relative enrichment of Ga, Ge and In relative to Pb and Zn which typically are associated with these elements in the form of galena and sphalerite? (3) What opportunities for critical mineral recovery exist in historically produced mine tailings such as those at Sullivan in southern BC? These findings will be used to inform decision making by mineral explorers, and to help inform provincial and federal government about the opportunities that exist within historical mining operations. We will partner with a successful junior exploration company (Fireweed Minerals) who are currently drilling out a new discovery of Pb-Zn-Ag in the Selwyn Basin, Teck Resources who produce Zn, In, Ga and Ge from the Red Dog Deposit in Alaska and are exploring for Zn resources and associated critical metals at Cirque and other properties in the Cordillera, and the provincial geological surveys of British Columbia, Yukon and the Northwest Territories. |
| 2023 | Higgins, Drew | McMaster University | Recovery of zinc and manganese dioxide from spent rechargeable zinc-ion batteries and reuse in freshly prepared electrodes | $633,000 | 3 | In this project, McMaster investigators will collaborate with Salient Energy to design and optimize a recycling and reuse pathway for end-of-life rechargeable zinc-ion battery cells for recovery and repurposing of critical minerals within the energy sector. This project will directly address the issue of accumulation of battery waste in Canada due to the rising number of battery-based applications in the power sector. Current battery recycling methods are still in their infancy and facing challenges with wide scale implementation, specifically for lithium-ion batteries, due to high cost and processing complexity. This has led to almost 8 million tons of lithium-ion battery waste being produced annually, and less than 5% being recycled, adding to the environmental cost of battery utilization. With many emerging battery technologies being presented as alternatives to lithium-ion, including rechargeable zinc-ion batteries, it is crucial that cost-effective and scalable recycling systems be deployed in parallel to minimize battery waste and create a closed loop economy for materials for energy storage. The interdisciplinary team will take a focused approach to this project that includes: (1) The design and experimental validation of a complete recycling process for rechargeable zinc-based batteries at the commercial scale; and (2) The development and optimization of an electrochemical cell for simultaneous, high throughput electrodeposition of zinc and manganese oxide from battery waste. The success of this project will avoid the waste of critical minerals (e.g., zinc and manganese) through recovery and minimize the environmental impact of spent batteries. It will also build the foundations for a circular economy surrounding rechargeable zinc-based batteries, increasing the techno-economic viability of this made-in-Canada technology that will greatly support decarbonization efforts and facilitate the integration of intermittent renewables (wind, solar) into the Canadian power sector. |
| 2023 | Holmden, Chris | University of Saskatchewan | Oilfields to batteries--using oilfield-brines to decipher the origin of Li in Saskatchewan's subsurface brine resource | $1,389,483 | 3 | Lithium is the key ingredient in the manufacture of batteries deemed crucial to decarbonization and clean energy transition but in short supply. Lithium therefore tops the 'critical minerals' list in Canada and many other countries. New lithium sources are required to meet rising demand, which is forecast to triple from 0.70M to 2M tonnes over the next 5-7 years. Sedimentary basins are unique in containing economic quantities of dissolved lithium that can be extracted through conventional deep wells. Economic concentrations are known to occur in the Williston Basin in Saskatchewan with several companies actively developing a new lithium resource by: (1) pumping fresh brine to surface; where (2) lithium is extracted using novel ion exchange techniques; and (3) spent brine is returned to the subsurface. Lithium exploration has thus far been guided by maps of lithium concentrations obtained from nearly three decades of government, academic, and industry sponsored research on Saskatchewan's subsurface brine resource. To better understand the fine-(well) scale distribution of lithium in the Williston Basin, a lithium exploration model is required to mitigate risk associated with high costs of drilling new wells in data poor regions. Understanding the distribution of lithium requires understanding the source of lithium, which at present is poorly constrained. Thus, to meet this objective, funding is requested to undertake the first study of lithium-brine origins in the Williston Basin using stable isotopes of lithium as a tracer. Lithium isotopes can distinguish important sources of lithium in sedimentary basin brines. And, when combined with new and existing data on oxygen, calcium, magnesium, and strontium isotopes, Cl-Br-Na systematics in brines and aquifer (rock) materials the lithium-brine migration history and thus present-day distribution can be deduced. This information will be used to pinpoint new high grade lithium targets in frontier areas of the Williston Basin with industry (ROK Resources, Isobrine Solutions) and government collaborators (Saskatchewan Geological Survey). |
| 2023 | Holuszko, Maria Ewelina | The University of British Columbia | Recovery of Gallium and Rare Earth Elements (REE) from LED waste using sustainable bioprocess | $439,000 | 3 | E-waste is the fastest growing solid waste stream which generated 53.4 Mt in 2019 (E-waste Monitor, 2019). The presence of precious and critical metals and elements in e-waste stream is ten times higher than in natural ores making them the most valuable waste stream. LED lamps with their outstanding energy efficiency due to the use of critical elements such as rare earths (REE), gallium (Ga) and precious metals (Au, Ag) in their structure represent a significant value. Currently, <1% of discarded LED lamps are recycled resulting in a vast proportion of critical elements like Ga and REE being lost with landfilling. The development of LED recycling technology will pave the way for proper metal extraction, while providing mineral security for highly critical elements like Ga and REE, listed in Canada's Critical Minerals Strategy. The lack of green and cost-effective recycling technology is the most pressing, because LEDs are enriched in the sought-after critical metals and elements needed for a global transition toward a green-energy future. The proposed research program will develop a green and economically viable recycling technology for recovery of Ga and REE from LED waste lamps using novel bioleaching and new separation technologies. Effective extraction of metals by bioleaching and selective recovery of elements requires in depth knowledge of LED e-waste, specific microorganisms' abilities, leaching mechanism, selective recovery of elements and understanding of limiting factors. This will be studied in connection with Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and techno-economic analysis to assess process environmental and economic viability. The biological extraction and recovery of target elements will be developed and optimized. The research team will consist of accomplished researchers in the area of e-waste and LED recycling (Dr. Holuszko-UBC); biohydrometallurgy and biodegradation of electronics (Dr. Santatao-Polytechnic Montreal); metal-alloys characterization and extraction (Dr. Sinclair-UBC); microbial metabolic and multi-omics (Dr. Alyse Kiesser-UBC.) The industrial collaborators will include: BC Electrical Services Ltd,; Contact Environmental, Inc., and NeoCtech Corp. |
| 2023 | Howarth, Ashlee | Concordia University | Metal-Organic Frameworks for Optimizing Efficiency of Rare Earth Element Extraction and Separation | $1,331,916 | 3 | This research project seeks to advance Canadian knowledge on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as new tools to optimize efficiency of extraction, separation, purification, and recycling of critical metals (CMs), focusing on rare earth elements (REEs). Targeting three streams, each with their own unique challenges, specific MOFs will be developed for the extraction and separation of REEs from (i) mineral concentrate extraction leachates, (ii) hydrometallurgical purification streams and (iii) secondary sources (electric and electronic waste). Given that REEs are typically solubilized under acidic pH, it is important that the materials used for their extraction and separation are stable under these conditions. Herein, we will explore Zr-based MOFs as a platform for the adsorptive extraction and selective separation of REEs. MOFs are porous materials made of metal nodes bridged by organic linkers, with highly tunable pore size, shape and composition, leading to their potential for highly selective adsorption. Zr-based MOFs are the most water stable MOFs reported with many examples being stable in aqueous solutions from pH 1-11. In this proposal, new Zr-MOFs will be synthesized while known ones will be post-synthetically modified to contain functional groups known to selectively coordinate to REEs such as phenylenedioxy diamide, phthaloyl diamide, and diglycolamide. Developing methods to advance MOFs for hydrometallurgical purification offers promise for improving the efficiency and sustainability of metal extraction and separation processes for CMs. Our team includes researchers with expertise in MOF synthesis (Howarth), organometallic chemistry (Fontaine), analytical separations (Larivière), green and sustainable process engineering (Bougie), extractive metallurgy and mineral processing (Boulanger), and theoretical and computational chemistry (Schreckenbach). Research will be conducted in partnership with Torngat Metals and Recycfluo who will provide extensive expertise and guidance on relevant conditions and challenges associated with REE extraction and separation, as well as mineral and industrial samples to help transition to higher technology readiness levels (TRL). |
| 2023 | Hsiao, Amy | University of Prince Edward Island | Sustainable Assets with Value for Energy and Manufacturing (SAVEM) | $870,000 | 3 | Prince Edward Island (PEI) is well-positioned to contribute to Canada's Critical Minerals Strategy. Although small in size and population, PEI has led the country by having an energy supply mix that is approximately 30% from wind and nuclear energies. This work proposes to address national gaps as outlined in the Canadian Critical Minerals strategy and potentially inform the development of a critical minerals strategy for clean technology, energy, and advanced manufacturing on PEI. The Sustainable Assets with Value for Energy and Manufacturing (SAVEM) research program focuses on midstream processes, as well as the integration of up-, mid-, and downstream management using a systems-based, circular and interdisciplinary engineering approach. Specifically, there are three research challenges to be explored: (1) the use of generative design, simulation, and modeling of novel alloy combinations, with a case study focus on the development of a novel iron-based alloy with properties potentially competitive to rare-earth elements, desirable for more-electric actuation and generation and clean technology applications; (2) the circular economy for stainless steel, focusing on reuse and recycling of recovered alloys for additive manufacturing of components for aerospace and renewable energy systems; and (3) resiliency of the value chain for critical metals, alloys, and minerals, using systems modeling coupled with the development of methods and indicators for assessing circularity, life cycle performance and end-of-life scenarios. As such, iron-alloys and nickel, cobalt, zinc, niobium, titanium, copper, will be investigated and compared with rare earth elements neodymium Nd and samarium Sm. The outcomes will provide new strategies and technology for sustainable, efficient use of critical minerals while increasing the resiliency of the industrial sectors that rely on them. Assessment of improvements gained will be the primary interaction with identified industrial partners. The team's expertise as well as its notable leadership in promoting pathways for equity-deserving individuals will ensure SAVEM's outcomes contribute to a bright, sustainable future for the Canadian critical minerals industry. |
| 2023 | Huang, Gordon | University of Regina | Development of an enhanced lithium recovery system integrated with composite selective materials | $875,000 | 3 | The world is experiencing an exponential growth of demands for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). With limited lithium resources, battery recycling can help satisfy market demands. Moreover, lithium-containing brine is another potential source, with its reserves greater than lithium mines over the world. In Western Canada, direct extraction of lithium from brine is an emerging opportunity with large scales of mining operations. Both battery recycling and lithium extraction from brine involve a process of selective recovery of lithium ions from solutions. However, current technologies suffer from low recovery efficiency and harmful environmental impacts. Therefore, high-efficiency and environmentally friendly lithium recovery systems are desired. The aim of this project is to develop an enhanced lithium recovery system integrated with composite selective materials. The objectives entail: (1) development of membranes with strong pH tolerance, large capacity, and high reusability, through the fabrication of composite materials (e.g., MOFs, MXenes and ionic liquids); (2) development of electrodes with lithium-intercalation capability as embedded/released through the modification of composite materials; (3) development of porous aerogels with multi-metal selectivity, through the polymerization of desired functional groups; (4) characterization of the developed composite materials to reveal the selective mechanism for lithium, through high-resolution synchrotron-based analyses; (5) application of the developed recovery systems through partnership with Ground Effects Environmental Services Inc. The proposed project will provide an innovative technology for facilitating lithium recovery (and thus reduced reliance on primary mineral resources), pollution control (and thus improved environmental quality), and relevant supply-chain enhancement (and thus enhanced resiliency of Canadian economy). It will also help grow Canadian expertise in sustainable development of critical mineral resources. |
| 2023 | Jones, David | The University of British Columbia | Next generation sensors for critical minerals | $1,361,000 | 3 | Our transition to a low-carbon economy is dependent on a massive increase in mined critical minerals for low-carbon energy technologies (e.g., wind turbines, solar panels, batteries). The Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy identified 31 critical minerals essential to Canada's economic security, required for our transition to a low-carbon economy, and a sustainable source for partners and allies with lithium, graphite, nickel, cobalt, copper, and rare earth elements identified as an immediate priority for the federal government. Current mining systems are expensive, inefficient and associated with negative environmental impacts. New ways to improve current practices while improving environmental, societal and economic outcomes are essential. Current sensing technologies integrated into the mining cycle (exploration, mining, processing) and even downstream product manufacturing and recycling do not fulfill the objectives of the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy. To do so, sensors with capabilities including classifying material in real-time, stand-off detection, no sample preparation requirement, field deployable, and the ability to detect traces of critical minerals (i.e., low ppm detection) are urgently needed. We propose to develop laser-ablation dual frequency comb spectroscopy (LA-DCS) to address the current shortcomings. Work to date has shown our proposed technology is effective on 5 of the 6 short-term priority critical minerals. Working with a team across Canada and abroad -composed of academic researchers, industry, and governmental agencies- our goal is to develop a sensing technology capable of detecting Lithium, the Rare Earth Elements, and Cobalt. We seek to deploy this technology at all stages of the mining cycle. Ultimately, such advances will reduce mining's environmental footprint to help transform Canada's mining industry and drive data-driven mining solutions. |
| 2023 | Kaake, Loren | Simon Fraser University | Capacitive Direct Lithium Extraction for Sustainable Battery Production | $1,096,000 | 3 | In order to move the global economy from fossil fuels to more sustainable alternatives, energy storage is vital. Lithium-ion batteries are the primary means of energy storage in a number of sectors, including transportation. For Canadian industry to take a leadership role in this sector, an incredible supply of lithium and other elements like nickel and cobalt is required. Fortunately, Canada's lithium resources are among the largest in the world. However, leveraging these deposits in an economically and environmentally viable way requires technological advancements. Specifically, lithium extraction typically generates large quantities of water, called a brine, which contains several types of dissolved metals. Lithium must be separated and concentrated to produce the raw materials necessary for battery production. In collaboration with Mangrove Lithium, (BC) Telescope Innovations, (BC) Summit Nanotech, (AB) and PolyAnalytik, (ON) we will develop techniques for lithium purification based on capacitive deionization methods. This novel technique, which we term Capacitive Direct Lithium Extraction (C-DLE) uses an applied electrical potential to draw ions out of solution, separating fresh water from brine. The technique offers the promise of selectively concentrating and purifying lithium relative to other low-value elements (e.g. sodium). Key to the technology are meticulously designed polymeric materials that can select for the ion of interest, (e.g. lithium). The materials will be analyzed by PolyAnalytic of ON, developing their advanced polymer characterization capabilities. The energy efficiency of the technique will be optimized to meet the demands of Mangrove Lithium and Summit Nanotech, with scale-up strategies for polymer synthesis being developed in collaboration with Telescope and PolyAnalytik. Radical improvements in the speed and scalability of the process are sought through additively manufactured architectures. We intend to deliver a viable and sustainable solution for Canadian industry to extract and process these critical minerals to secure its role as a global leader in the worldwide transition to green energy. |
| 2023 | LaFlamme, Crystal | Université Laval | Controls on nickel, copper, cobalt ore horizons in the Ungava Orogen, Nunavik, Quebec: Towards developing vectoring tools | $543,640 | 3 | We seek to integrate field data with new analytical methods to advance our understanding of the processes controlling the formation of high-grade nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and cobalt (Co) in magmatic sulfide deposits, and to develop criteria to guide near-mine exploration of these critical metals. Canada hosts several world-class magmatic Ni-Cu-Co deposits, including the 100 Mt Raglan district located in the 360 km-long Cape Smith Belt in northern Québec (Nunavik) and an enormous potential for more resources. However, despite extensive exploration, magmatic sulfide deposits remain notoriously difficult exploration targets. Ni, Cu, and Co are chalcophile (sulfur-loving) elements, partitioning strongly into sulfides to form magmatic sulfide deposits. As the assimilation of sulfide-bearing sedimentary rocks is known to be an important mechanism for triggering sulfide saturation and inducing ore formation in these deposits, tracing where and when assimilation occurred in the Earth's crust is critical for targeting. Several recent advances in microanalytical analysis developed by our pan-Canadian team, have advanced our potential to track elemental the depletion of chalcophile metals, prior to and during sulfur saturation. Further, the isotope signature (d34S-?33S) of sulfides is a powerful tool for tracing sulfur crustal pathways through the crust. Therefore, we propose a research program that will support three HQP to: 1) determine the age, nature and S isotope signatures of previously identified sulfur-bearing sedimentary horizons in the Cape Smith Belt, and 2) quantify and compare the multiple sulfur isotope signature of volcanic-invasive Raglan, and other mineralised parts of the system, and 3) investigate the chalcophile composition of oxides and in melt inclusions. To do so, we collaborate closely with Glencore and the Bureau de Connaissances Geoscientifique Québec who both provide in kind logistical and scientific support to the research program. This research integrate field data with state-of-the-art analytical data to provide insight into the relative timing of sulfur saturation in the magmatic system. This will enable better criteria for targeting for the critical metals nickel, copper and cobalt ore horizons in the Cape Smith Belt, northern Québec. |
| 2023 | Larson, Kyle | The University of British Columbia | An integrated source to sink approach to characterizing critical metals enrichment in magmatic-hydrothermal deposits | $830,170 | 3 | The transition to a sustainable economy requires the development and widespread availability of technologies that utilize a subset of minerals and metals collectively termed 'critical minerals'. Thirty-one such critical minerals, including copper (Cu) and molybdenum (Mo), have been identified by the Canadian Government as essential to the future economic success of the country. The development of a stable, local, and ethical supply of critical minerals, with minimal exploration-related environmental impact, necessitates a detailed understanding of how those minerals and metals accumulate in Earth's crust. Moreover, optimal extraction of the critical minerals from their host rocks requires an understanding of the micro-to-nano-scale characteristics of the mineral deposits. To meet those requirements, we will carry out a series of detailed interdisciplinary studies in collaboration with Enduro Metals in their Newmont Lake property. Newmont Lake is situated in the middle of the Golden Triangle region, a region so named for its gold and metal endowment. These studies will focus on understanding: 1) the magma source of major Cu and Mo deposits and how processes therein may favour segregation of metals and minerals of interest into mineralized horizons, 2) the evolution of fluids that circulate around evolving or changing magma sources through time and how variables such as temperature and pressure may contribute to whether or not a time-specific fluid event is able to transport critical minerals, 3) the role that multi-scale rock structures may play in localizing fluids and magmas and how deformation processes may help remobilize and upgrade local metal concentrations possibly making them more amenable to final extraction. The results of these studies will be compared to, and integrated with, both published data and new information that is actively being generated by the Geological Survey of Canada from the broader region around the Newmont Lake property. The outcomes of this project will be used by Enduro and other groups in the region to help inform best exploration practises and means to focus efforts on areas and rocks that are most likely to host critical minerals, helping minimize environmental impact. |
| 2023 | Lecumberri Sanchez, Pilar | University of Alberta | Cobalt in the Northwest Territories | $378,620 | 3 | Cobalt occurs in a diverse number of deposit types in Canada but is at present exclusively mined out of magmatic-sulfide deposits. Of other cobalt-bearing deposits, the non-magmatic source listed by Natural Resources Canada as closest to cobalt production is the NICO deposit, a cobalt-gold-bismuth-copper deposit located in the NWT that has been previously classified as an iron-oxide-copper-gold (IOCG). Deposits with similarly complex metal assemblages have also been reported in the East Arm of the Great Slave Lake. The major challenge to cobalt extraction in these deposits in comparison to magmatic-sulfide deposits are lower grades, a larger number of metals, and a significantly more diverse mineralogy that presents metallurgical challenges in conventional pyrometallurtical smelters. The concentrations and ratios of cobalt, gold, bismuth and copper ± nickel within and between deposits is highly variable making predictions on the spatial distribution of metals and mineralogy a challenge. In that context, this project aims to determine what factors control the distribution of nickel, cobalt, bismuth and copper within deposits and between some of the deposits in the Bear Magmatic Zone and in the East Arm of the Great Slave Lake. Cobalt and nickel are two of the six minerals prioritized by Canada. One means to expand the Canadian portfolio of these metals would be addressing the mineralogical challenges of extracting cobalt from deposit types other than magmatic-sulfide. In that front, this research project would support domestic critical mineral value chains from the perspective of exploration, therefore fitting within the scope of this call. The partner organizations in this research will be Fortune Minerals Limited, a mining company that holds the NICO mineral leases, and the Northwest Territories Geological Survey (NTGS), which is the main provider of geosciences information in the NWT. Both Fortune Minerals Limited and the NTGS are involved in developing the research questions in this project and will be involved along the project providing expertise in the regional and deposit scale geology as well as in kind support in the field and through sample donation. |
| 2023 | Lelievre, Peter | Mount Allison University | Integration of Geophysical and Geological Information Through Novel Inverse Methods Designed for Mineral Exploration | $625,500 | 3 | Most large and easily accessible mineral deposits have been found and exploited. To continue to supply critical mineral resources central to global industries, mineral exploration must move to deposits that are deeper or smaller, and therefore are more challenging to identify and characterize using geophysical methods. Geophysical inversion is an imaging approach that provides information about the subsurface physical properties of the Earth (density, conductivity, etc.) based on measurements of physical fields (gravity, electromagnetic, etc.). That physical property information can be interpreted to identify and characterize the mineral content inside the Earth. To do this successfully, there must be a tight integration between the geophysical and geological data typically collected for mineral exploration. This research will look at novel state-of-the-art geophysical inversion methods and develop approaches for such tight integration. Specifically, we will research surface-geometry inversion methods, which parameterize the Earth in terms of surfaces between different rock units. This parameterization is more consistent with geologists' understandings of the Earth, and has high potential to allow the tight integration of geophysical and geological information that we seek. Surface-geometry inversion methods are becoming more common but little work has thoroughly assessed approaches for using these methods to integrate geophysical and geological information; that will be the primary objective of this research project. A secondary objective is to further improve current computational aspects of surface-geometry inversion methods by researching the mathematical optimization approaches that are required to perform the inversions. This work will develop sophisticated modelling methods and related software that can be immediately adopted by mineral exploration companies in Canada, and thereby strengthen Canada's position as a global supplier for critical minerals. |
| 2023 | Li, Ge | University of Alberta | Green Graphite Production, Fast-Charging Battery Application, and Recycling | $896,400 | 3 | Graphite is expected to surge in the forthcoming years, primarily driven by the growth of electric vehicles (EVs). Synthetic graphite (SG), produced by heating unsaturated carbon from petroleum to 2500 degrees Celsius, occupies the biggest anode material market due to its high quality. But the production of it leads to energy-intensive, pollution, high-cost, and time-consuming. It is significant to recall the values of natural graphite (NG) for reducing CO2 emissions, environmental footprint, and manufacturing cost. Together with the recycling of graphite, closing the loop of its lifecycle, we can claim battery technology approaches "cleaner". The goal of this proposal is to realize the green economy of natural graphite. The detailed objectives are: i) Manufacturing. Aiming at the comparable battery performance of SG, improve NG's quality to the battery-grade level with moderate and cost-competitive innovative methodologies (e.g., purification, spheroidization, and coating). ii) Fast-charging battery application. Enhancing the quality of NG to enable battery operation under extreme conditions (i.e., fast charging), represents a critical hurdle in the LIB's advance. Assess NG with physical characterizations and battery evaluations. iii) Recycling. Recovery of spent graphite to close its lifecycle in inventive, low-cost, environment-friendly ways (e.g., oxygen-free roasting, wet magnetic separation). This proposal aligns with the 2 partner's objectives of the development of natural sources, battery technology, and sustainable future. NPI and co-PI's research team will be more equitable, diverse, and inclusive (EDI), by proposing approaches with desired outcomes during the recruitment, training, and development opportunities, and inclusion. The success of the proposed research will enable Canada's essential role as a stable supplier in the global battery industry value chain and make a significant impact on Canada's environment. |
| 2023 | Li, Yuning | University of Waterloo | Developing an Affordable, Portable/Wearable Sensor for Nickel Carbonyl Monitoring and Detection in Nickel Manufacturing | $498,400 | 3 | Nickel is a vital element with wide-ranging applications in both industry and consumer products, from stainless steel and magnets to rechargeable batteries. Canada has identified nickel as one of its critical minerals, recognizing its potential to drive economic growth. Vale Base Metals, headquartered in Ontario, Canada, is a leading global producer of nickel. The production of nickel involves the synthesis and use of nickel carbonyl (Ni(CO)4), a highly toxic compound with a low occupational exposure limit of 50 ppb, posing substantial workplace hazards. Ensuring Ni(CO)4 levels remain below this limit in the nickel manufacturing environment is paramount. However, existing Ni(CO)4 sensors on the market are cumbersome, expensive, and not ideal for Vale Base Metals' needs. The company urgently requires lightweight, portable/wearable, and cost-effective Ni(CO)4 sensors to enhance workplace safety. To address this critical need, the University of Waterloo and Vale Base Metals have joined forces to develop innovative, portable/wearable, and affordable Ni(CO)4 sensors. The research focuses on creating novel polymer semiconductors that strongly interact with Ni(CO)4, resulting in significant changes in the polymer's electrical and optical properties. These polymers will serve as the active components in three types of lightweight optoelectronic devices: chemiresistors, organic field-effect transistors, and fluorimeters. These devices will be manufactured using cost-effective methods such as roll-to-roll printing on flexible plastic substrates, making them ideal for portable and wearable applications. This technology will significantly enhance workplace safety, protecting the health and lives of employees while promoting nickel production. It will bring substantial benefits to Vale Base Metals and contribute to Canada's economic growth. Moreover, the technology's adaptability allows for easy integration into fields like wearable electronics and the Internet of Things. Additionally, the project will provide training for highly qualified personnel with expertise spanning multiple disciplines. |
| 2023 | Liu, Qi | University of Alberta | Recovery and Utilization of REE, Ti and Zr Minerals from Alberta Oil Sands Froth Treatment Tailings | $1,400,000 | 3 | The bitumen froth treatment tailings from Alberta's oil sands operation contain economical grades of heavy minerals bearing rare-earth-elements (REE), titanium (Ti) and zirconium (Zr). The minerals are monazite, ilmenite, leucoxene, and zircon. An Alberta Chamber of Resources study in 1994-1996 showed that, if the heavy minerals were recovered, the froth treatment tailings would represent 6% of the world's annual consumption of titanium, 9% of the world's annual production of zirconium, and 35% of the world's annual production of rare-earth-elements at the time. The tailings also contained an economical grade of monazite. With the significantly increased oil sands production rate and the depleting beach sands deposits in Australia and South Africa, the share of the heavy minerals contained in the oil sands tailings in the world market should be much higher today. In this project, we will collaborate with CVW CleanTech and InnoTech Alberta to study the recovery and upgrading of monazite, zircon and titanium oxide minerals from froth treatment tailings from all particle size fractions, and to develop develop Al alloys, next generation steels, and high entropy alloys for targeted hydrogen storage and high-temperature applications. |
| 2023 | MacLachlan, Mark | The University of British Columbia | Innovative Supramolecular Approaches for the Separation of Critical Metals | $1,039,044 | 3 | Rare earth metals (REs), which includes lanthanides (plus yttrium and scandium), are critical components in electronics, lasers, magnets, and other advanced technology. Although Canada is known to have large deposits of rare earth metals, nearly all of our REs are now imported, and Canada has only recently started to mine REs. Extracting and purifying REs selectively from ores, from waste electronics, and other sources is extremely important, yet difficult to realize owing to the chemical similarity of all of the REs. New chemistry-based approaches are required to more effectively extract REs from ores and to develop efficient options to advance a circular economy in Canada by extracting REs from electronics waste. One promising approach centers on deploying organic molecules as extraction systems to achieve the separation and recovery of lanthanides. Accordingly, this proposal describes the synthesis, investigations and computational studies of new synthetic molecules and biomolecules as ligands for efficient harvesting of lanthanides. At the core of this effort is the identification and development of ligands that maximize binding to a particular lanthanide. By optimizing the portion of the molecule that binds to the metal (i.e., the binding sites of the ligands) new molecules will be created that can extract REs with enhanced selectivity. This effort will be supported by computational modeling techniques that are poised to deliver new designs of well-defined structures that can impart selectivity through carefully crafted interactions between ligands and metals. Moreover, stimulus-responsive systems will be developed to allow the extraction and on-demand release of the REs. We will accomplish this ambitious objective by integrating existing expertise in the areas of supramolecular chemistry, materials chemistry, coordination chemistry, ML/computational chemistry, biochemistry, and photochemistry. This interdisciplinary approach will lead to significant new materials and methods for isolating rare earth metals, while simultaneously providing exceptional training to undergraduate and graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows. |
| 2023 | Niewczas, Marek | McMaster University | Development of High Strength, High Electrical Conductivity Aluminum Alloys for the Replacement of Copper in Electrical Applications | $645,320 | 3 | Copper and Cu-alloys have the highest electrical conductivity of any commercial alloy. The electrical properties, in combination with high strength and good fatigue and corrosion resistance, make Cu-based conductors dominant in various applications in automotive, transportation, power transmissions, electrical and electronic industries, integrated circuits, and others. However, due to multiple factors, including high productivity costs, limited reserves, the need for weight reduction of electric and electronic components in vehicles and transportation systems, and some materials limitations, the replacement of Cu and Cu-alloys by new lightweight materials with comparable performance characteristics is currently in the highest demand. Achieving high-strength and high-electrical conductivity in metallic materials is challenging since these two properties are mutually exclusive. The microstructural elements responsible for the material's strength, such as solute atoms, grain boundaries, dislocations, and precipitates, deteriorate electrical conductivities due to enhanced electron scattering. On the other hand, eliminating these scattering centers improves electron transport but worsens the material's strength and mechanical properties. Al and Al-alloys are much lighter than Cu, exhibit good electrical and thermal conductivity, decent strength and fatigue resistance, and lower production costs per unit weight than Cu and Cu-alloys. Over the years, the applicant has studied the electrical and mechanical properties of Al and Al-alloys and acquired expertise in alloy design, understanding the influence of various structural variables on the properties and understanding how to manipulate the microstructure to achieve desired properties. Achieving high electrical conductivity and high tensile strength might be possible on a carefully designed alloy composition by applying appropriate thermo-mechanical processing. The present research program offers the design of the alloy composition and development of fabrication and heat-treatment strategy for producing Al-alloy systems with enhanced strength and electrical conductivity and understanding processes governing these materials' mechanical and electrical properties. |
| 2023 | Ofori-Opoku, Nana | McMaster University | Sustainable Critical Mineral Recovery: Advancing CO2 Sequestration and Mineral Extraction | $1,477,450 | 3 | The demand for sustainable access to critical minerals, including lithium, nickel, and platinum group elements (PGE), has grown significantly as these resources form the backbone of modern technologies. However, it is challenging to extract these minerals from complex ultramafic and magmatic deposits. A novel approach utilizing transcritical carbon dioxide (tCO2) has emerged and shows promise in effectively pulverizing rocks and extracting minerals while sequestering CO2. This proposal will assess the feasibility, environmental impact, economic factors, technological advancements, and commercial readiness of the tCO2 technique for mining lithium-bearing pegmatites and Komatiite nickel-copper-PGE. We propose three objectives: (1) Conduct experiments to simulate CO2-based pulverization processes and optimize the extraction of crucial elements from various mineral deposits. Through a comprehensive analysis integrating mineralogical and geochemical data with reactive transport modelling and economic analyses, we will advance the technology and ensure its commercial viability. (2) Conduct a mapping exercise to identify potential deposits and assess the environmental and social implications of critical mineral mining, particularly lithium. This objective will involve analyzing environmental samples and implementing lifecycle assessments to evaluate the environmental costs and trade-offs of advanced mining technologies while promoting sustainable practices. (3) Develop advanced thermodynamic models to accurately predict and analyze the intricate behaviours in the extraction process, considering temperature, pressure, and chemical speciation. By establishing a comprehensive framework for monitoring and predicting the temporal evolution of mineral extraction reactions, the project aims to optimize mining processes and enhance resource utilization. Our proposed study will significantly advance CO2 sequestration knowledge, aid emerging methods' commercial readiness, and provide tools to quantify and mitigate environmental and social impacts. Moreover, it will address climate risks and secure Canada's future as a global supplier of critical minerals. |
| 2023 | Pan, Yuanming | University of Saskatchewan | Synchrotron characterization on the surface chemistry of spodumene and other lithium silicates: Toward efficient and sustainable development of Canadian lithium pegmatites | $770,498 | 3 | Lithium as a critical constituent for the fast-growing green economy (e.g. rechargeable batteries and storage facilities) is extracted largely from either spodumene (LiAlSi2O6) in pegmatites or lithium-bearing brines. Canada is well endowed with spodumene and petalite (LiAlSi4O10) pegmatites from coast to coast to coast but is lagging in bringing these lithium resources to the market due to technical problems in mineral beneficiation. Two of the most serious technical problems hampering Canadian companies in developing lithium pegmatite resources are 1) inconsistent recovery of spodumene and petalite from high-grade ores and 2) ineffective recovery of these minerals from low-grade ores. We hypothesize that the inconsistent and ineffective recovery of spodumene and petalite arises from their diverse surface chemistry, which in turn determines their adsorption behavior during the recovery process by froth flotation. Accordingly, we have assembled a team of mineralogists, structural geologists, synchrotron specialists, and metallurgists with complementary expertise to test this hypothesis. Specifically, we plan to use advanced synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to investigate the surface chemistry of spodumene and petalite in selected lithium pegmatites. In particular, we plan to collaborate with our primary industrial partners Rock Tech Lithium Inc. and Pan American Energy Corp. to use their Georgia Lake spodumene and Big Mack petalite pegmatites in northwestern Ontario as examples to document the three-dimensional variations in the surface chemistry of spodumene and pelaite, with an emphasis on those in the most challenging low-grade ores. These results are then used to develop novel flotation processes to effectively recover spodumene and petalite for the sustainable development of Canadian lithium pegmatites. In addition, the surface chemistry data of spodumene and petalite collected with geological contexts are anticipated to provide new insights into the crystallization and deformation histories of pegmatites. Moreover, this research actively engages many Indigenous Nations, including the Métis Nation of Ontario. |
| 2023 | Partin, Camille | University of Saskatchewan | Unlocking Canada's rare earth element (REE) potential: a multidisciplinary approach to understand high-grade critical REE mineralization in northern Saskatchewan | $807,218 | 3 | Rare earth elements (REEs) are raw materials that are crucial for the energy transition required to achieve a lower carbon society. However, Canada lacks a steady domestic supply of these materials, leaving the country dependent on foreign sources. Finding reliable and concentrated domestic sources of REEs is essential to promote Canada's economic, social, and environmental well-being. Significant concentrations of REE mineral occurrences have been found in rocks located in northern Saskatchewan, but their distribution and genesis are poorly understood. To enhance our understanding of these anomalous REE concentrations, our University of Saskatchewan research team will conduct a three-year multidisciplinary study in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Research Council, where Canada's first Rare Earth Processing Facility resides, and three Saskatchewan-based mineral exploration companies. This study will involve the detailed geological mapping of these areas to understand structural controls on the occurrence of these rocks, as well as follow-up laboratory studies, including mineral chemistry analysis, isotope geochemistry, geochronological studies, and geospatial modeling, which is important for a holistic understanding of these mineral enrichments and their geological context. Collaborations between academia and industry are essential to ensure that fundamental research is effectively translated into real-world benefits for Canadians. This research will produce a series of toolsets that exploration companies can use to efficiently identify and exploit domestic REE sources, thus strengthening Canada's global economic position. In addition, inclusive training opportunities will be provided to build the next generation of geoscientists. |
| 2023 | Pickles, Christopher | Queen's University | Pilot Scale Microwave Assisted-Comminution and Downstream Processing of Copper and Copper-Molybdenum Ores | $1,076,000 | 3 | The mining industry in Canada is the major consumer of energy amongst all of the industrial sectors. A substantial quantity of this energy is utilized for low efficiency particle fracturing in comminution. Microwave assisted fracturing has been investigated at the laboratory scale, for ores containing critical metals such as copper sulphide ores. Under laboratory conditions at relatively low powers, the energy used for microwaving often exceeds the energy savings in particle breakage. There is also evidence that such fracturing could benefit down stream processing, particularly in mineral concentration or metal recovery, enhancing its potential for commercial adoption. Most laboratory studies have utilized low power levels, leading to high specific energy inputs on fine particles. This has limited the enhancement in metal concentration or recovery, as the minerals might have been excessively treated, altering or damaging their surfaces. Recently pilot scale studies have been conducted by the applicants on sulphide ores with nickel and gold at higher powers of up to 150 kW for short durations with larger particles. These studies have shown that microwaves offer significant potential for microwave assisted fracturing, especially with the advantage of lower specific energy inputs. Additionally, this could further enhance the benefits in downstream processing. More research is necessary to determine the optimal conditions for various copper-rich raw materials such as the poryphory ores and polymetallic nodules. It is also essential to establish statistically reliable tests to understand the mechanisms, measure microwave impacts, and fine-tune the process. This research will be conducted with a number of industrial partners and the pilot scale research will be carried out at Sepro in Langley, B.C., utilizing their 150 kW pilot scale microwave system. Professors Chris Pickles and Farzaneh Sadri of Queen's University, will direct the research and train the students in the research program. Additional industrial partners in the project are, The Metals Company, Eriez and Ausenco. |
| 2023 | Piercey, Stephen | Memorial University of Newfoundland | Geology, Mineralogy, and Genesis of Critical Mineral-Bearing Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide (VMS) Deposits | $718,360 | 3 | Volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits are important sources of metals, including Cu and Zn, as primary commodities, and Co, Ga, Ge, Te (+ Bi, Ni, In, Sb, Sn, and W) as by-products, elements that will be important for electrification of the energy and transportation sectors as the world transitions away from fossil fuel-based energy delivery. This project will focus on VMS deposits and the enrichment of critical minerals within these deposits and the processes that lead to enrichment. There will be four research pillars focusing on the enrichment of Zn-(Ge-Ga-Te-Cu)(pillar 1) and Cu-Co-Ni-(Te-Zn)(pillar 2) in VMS deposits, pillar 3 will focus on the geochemistry, mineralogy, and critical mineral distribution in VMS deposits in British Columbia, whereas pillar 4 will focus on the role that metamorphism, deformation, and sulfide partial melting play on upgrading, redistribution, and concentrations of critical minerals in VMS deposits. The work will provide information on critical element mineral residence, siting, and textures and will utilize both existing sample suites from the proponents and research partners, and involve new sample collection from archives and deposit sites, as needed. The work will focus on deposits of different grades, tonnages, and sub-types from Newfoundland, Ontario, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, and Yukon, and will involve both government and industry partners who will provide both cash and in-kind contributions, including field support, samples, assay databases, and on-the-ground expertise to help guide research and supervise highly qualified personnel (HQP) on the project. The end goal of this project will be to provide refined descriptive, genetic, exploration, and development models for critical mineral-bearing VMS deposits and in doing will provide an updated metallogenic model for this deposit type that can be used in Canada and globally. |
| 2023 | Ponnurangam, Sathish | University of Calgary | Environmentally Sustainable Extraction of Critical Minerals from Alberta's Resources | $621,000 | 3 | There is a high potential to recover and utilize multiple critical minerals present in the waste streams of Alberta's oil and gas sector. These include substantial lithium reserves present in oilfield and geothermal brines, as well as vanadium, rare earth elements (REEs), and other critical minerals in waste sludges. Challenge: It is energy and capital-intensive to extract and separate these valuables out of the large volume waste streams due to their very dilute concentrations relative to non-valuable metals (gangue ions) that are also present. Objectives: We will develop cheap biofriendly adsorbents that can handle large volumes of brines/leachates and selectively separate Li and other critical elements from gangue ions while mitigating fouling issues. In addition, we will develop energy-efficient leaching technology to release metal ions from sludges. Outcomes. (1) Direct lithium and critical element separation technologies for Alberta oilfield and geothermal brines as well as leachates from waste sludges, (2) Energy efficient microwave-based roasting and leaching technology for release of REEs, vanadium and other critical elements from waste sludges. Research Team: The research team (Ponnurangam, Trifkovic, Natale, De la Hoz Siegler, and Sen) possesses scientific expertise and leadership in key areas to support the success of the proposed project. This includes knowledge of critical metal extraction, nanomaterial synthesis, complex fluids, interfacial phenomena, 3D adsorbents, advanced imaging, practical knowledge of the secondary waste products from oil and gas sector, and bioengineering processes. Our industrial partners Summit Nanotech, and Blue Eden CleanTechnology Solutions, have great interest in the proposed work as it adds significant value to their existing products and processes. Benefits to Canada: The proposed program serves an urgent need, as it will initiate and tap into Alberta's substantial but currently underutilized mineral resources, particularly lithium, vanadium, and rare earth elements. The proposed research is in strong alignment with both the strategies and initiatives put forth by the Alberta and federal authorities pertaining to critical minerals. |
| 2023 | Rezai, Pouya | York University | Portable and Sensitive Platform Technologies for Rapid Isolation, Detection, and Quantification of Critical Minerals in Fluids: from Mine Exploration to Electronics Recycling | $1,486,000 | 3 | Canada ranked 6th globally in lithium (Li) reserves and has many promising Li exploration projects, but only two Li mines are in operation in Canada. Our goal is to advance knowledge, processes, and technologies to support a domestic circular economy of Li, particularly helping advance Li exploration and recycling. This will be achieved via the development and integration of Li-ion imprinted polymer (Li-IIP) microstructures into opto- and electro-microfluidic devices to achieve field-deployable sample preparation, Li isolation, Li detection, and Li quantification technologies. Six industrial partners and collaborators in this project will bring complementary expertise in 1) Li exploration (Frontier Li), 2) Li battery (LiB) recycling (RecycLiCo), 3) solutions to empower mining and recycling industries (pH7 & Sixth Wave Innovation), 4) portable sensors (AfimaCheck), and 5) product commercialization (Elomatic). Successful completion of this research will positively impact the partners by: (i) providing Li explorers immediate access to preliminary assay results in the field for making data-driven decisions to advance their projects; (ii) offering LiB recyclers cutting-edge solutions to promptly detect and accurately quantify Li at different stages of the recycling process for quality control and Li extraction optimization; and (iii) developing novel Li-IIPs and microfluidic-based point-of-need (PoN) solutions for technology developers to efficiently detect, quantify, and extract Li from both primary and secondary resources. The research program will train 28 highly qualified personnel (HQP) over 3 years. They will gain advanced technical skills and develop expertise in technologies related to critical mineral isolation, quantification, and recycling. The partnerships will equip them with the intricacies of customer interactions and technology commercialization. As a result, HQPs will become key contributors to promote a green economy by advancing the development of the critical minerals value chain in Canada. The Li technologies can be easily tailored to provide affinity to other critical minerals immediately upon completion of this project. |
| 2023 | Roesler, Roland | University of Calgary | Selective extraction of rare earth elements from Canadian resources | $1,500,000 | 3 | The rare earth elements (or REEs), encompassing the lanthanides, as well as scandium and yttrium, are vital to modern technology, finding applications in catalysis, electronic devices, luminescent displays, ceramics, coatings, and metallurgy. They are also essential to the generation, storage, and use of alternative energy, where neodymium magnets are of key importance (43% of REE market). The demand for REEs is expected to increase sharply over the next decade, driven by the increasing use of sustainably-generated electrical energy, leading to an expected increase of the world market from 7 billion dollars currently to 15 billion dollars by 2030. The production and refinement of REEs is dominated by China (70% of world production), which also has the largest mineral reserves. Although Canada has one of the largest mapped REE resources, the exploitation of these strategic minerals is in an incipient phase. This is due in part to the substantial technological difficulties and intrinsic environmental burden associated with the extraction and refinement of these elements, which have similar chemical properties that hinder their separation. To address these challenges, the University of Calgary team comprised of scientists and engineers, and Calgary start-up Summit Nanotech are collaborating to develop a breakthrough technology for the economic development of a domestic REE supply chain, and to train personnel with expertise in REE chemistry and engineering. Using the team's extensive experience in technology development and commercialization, the proposal focuses on the development of new molecular sorbents with high, electrochemically controlled REE selectivity. The sorbent design will be assisted with machine learning and the resulting materials will be afixed to solid supports and incorporated in electrochemical devices. The project aims to deliver a pre-commercial prototype technology that would allow Summit Nanotech to continue their exceptional growth, expanding their portfolio to REE extraction technologies, and completely change the current economics of domestic rare earth element deposits. |
| 2023 | Roué, Lionel | Institut national de la recherche scientifique | Analysis of graphite concentrates from recycling of lithium-ion batteries | $360,000 | 3 | For the electrical-vehicle and energy-storage industries to become part of a circular economy, recycling end-of-life lithium-ion batteries is essential. So far, recyclers of used lithium-ion batteries have focused mostly on recovering critical metals, such as cobalt and nickel, from the cathodes, and much less on recovering graphite from the anodes. This graphite could be purified and processed so that it could be reused in the production of new lithium-ion batteries. That is the objective of this project. Two companies-- Kingston Process Metallurgy (KPM) and Green Graphite Technologies (GGT), the industry partners for this project—have jointly developed a highly effective green technology for purifying natural mined graphite into graphite of lithium-ion-battery quality. In this project, this technology will be adapted to process graphite concentrates from the recycling of lithium-ion batteries. This technology will also be able to recover the residual critical metals (Li, Co, Ni) still present in the graphite concentrates. These concentrates will be supplied by two lithium-ion-battery-recycling firms: Li-Cycle, of Ontario and Recyclage Lithion, of Quebec, which are industry partners of KPM and GGT. In comparison with mined graphite concentrates, recycled graphite concentrates will pose additional purification challenges, both because of their chemical and morphological variability and because they contain fluorinated organic impurities and conductive additives. The objectives of this project are as follows: (i) obtain a graphite exceeding the 99.95% purity required for use in lithium-ion batteries; (ii) assess the condition of the purified graphite to determine whether it can be used in lithium-ion batteries as is, and if not, determine to what extent its characteristics (crystalline structure, morphology, surface chemistry, and electrochemical behaviour) have been degraded; and (iii) develop post-purification treatments in order to correct these characteristics so as to obtain a graphite of lithium-ion-battery quality from various sources of recycled graphite; (iv) conduct a technical and economic analysis of the technology and propose a development plan for scaling it up. This project will strengthen the Canadian battery industry by improving the processes for recycling lithium-ion batteries and by offering producers of lithium-ion batteries a new, green source of graphite. This project will also train highly qualified personnel and create new jobs to support the battery industry in Canada. |
| 2023 | Sain, Mohini | University of Toronto | Molecular Designing of Albany Graphite for Broader Energy Market | $441,000 | 3 | Graphite is one of the non-metallic natural minerals and is regarded as a key mineral due to its application in high-temperature lubricants, electrical motor brushes, friction materials, battery and fuel cells, and other products. In order to fully utilize Canada's graphite resources, the government is adopting a "mines to mobility" strategy since the 2021, employing the country's wealth of natural resources and mining knowledge to design the battery and graphite supply chains required to serve the electric vehicle market and aid in the wider transition to clean energy. This project will transform natural graphite from Albany mine owned by Zentek Graphite mineral to become a major player for energy devices including electrified mobility systems market. Fundamental challenge in natural graphite is the poor efficacy of the flake graphite in battery and fuel cell component due to the anisotropic behaviour of graphite. The layered structure of Albany natural graphite needs to be engineered to tuned the carbon defects in atomic level to control the activation barrier facilitating electron and ion mobility. To address challenges caused by graphite mineral morphology (flakes-like), spherical graphite, a premium commodity in the graphite market, is used in growing industries such as energy devices and environmental protection. By spheroidization of the flakes to spherical particles, an isotropic property is expected because the basal and edge plane are attached with each other. Additionally, the spherical shape reduces the tortuosity of the electrode, which is a very important characteristic for lithium-ion battery development due to enhanced diffusivity of ions. Proposed project will improve understanding of carbon defects in natural graphite and engineer defects by adopting spray pyrolytic mechanism with systematic molecular dynamic atomistic investigation of carbon defects in transformed spheroidized graphite. Feasibility study of optimized spherical natural graphite critical mineral for lithium-ion battery and fuel cell bipolar plates. |
| 2023 | Scott, Ashley | Laurentian University | Microalgal biosorption of critical minerals from mining related tailing ponds - recovering key metals to better protect aquatic systems and water supplies. | $530,990 | 3 | Canadian mining, mineral processing, and smelting operations generate low concentration - effluents that contain critical minerals, primarily from mine tailings and other wastes. The industrial partner, Glencore, has extensive treatment processes in place, along with rigorous sampling protocols and reporting requirements to ensure that any effluents leaving their sites are less than all regulatory standards. As part of these programs, they are committed to continual improvement through use of sustainable processes and anticipate the proposed novel biosorption of critical metals by microalgae will provide a valuable complimentary water treatment asset. The proposal will use naturally occurring microalgae bioprospected from mining sites in Northern Canada to remove these critical minerals from water bodies using natural biosorption processes. Metals of interest in this proposal are on Canada's critical minerals priority list, namely copper, nickel, and cobalt, which are found within tailings ponds at Canadian mining, mineral processing, and smelting sites, including those of the industrial partner. We will also investigate methods for metals recovery from the biomass and beneficial uses of the remaining biomass, such as a soil ameliorant to aid in land rehabilitation. The value to the critical minerals industry is that this low-cost approach will help with managing operational ponds and maximizing recovery of critical mineral resources. But significantly can also act as a sustainable safeguard for protecting of water supplies for regional communities, by continuing to "mop up" metals and maintain post-closure legacy ponds to high standards to ensure long-term environmental protection, not just now, but for future generations. . |
| 2023 | Singh, Chandra Veer | University of Toronto | Sustainable development of solid-state battery materials (SuBMat) | $775,500 | 3 | All solid-state battery (SSB) is emerging as the next generation technology due to key advantages over conventional batteries including superior thermal stability, lower flammability, higher safety, improved durability, and simplicity of battery design. Recent research on SSBs has found a range of suitable materials for solid state electrolytes (SSEs) including ceramics and polymers. This work will focus on the ceramic oxide SSEs, known as LAGP, LATP, LLTO, and LLZO. In addition to Li, they include several critical minerals such as Al, Ge, La, Ti, and Zr which are prioritized in the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy. The conventional process of alloying the raw elements into the oxide composition through mechanical milling/alloying suffers from a large processing time, material loss, and contamination. Thus, it is crucial to consider sustainability, eco-design, recycling, and circular economy through the entire chain of SSE production from early stage of material development to the manufacturing of the SSEs. The overarching objectives of this program is to discover critical mineral-based solid-state battery electrolyte materials with optimized chemistry and develop a sustainable and scalable synthesis process for such materials through multiscale simulations and experimentations at laboratory and industrial scales. An interdisciplinary academic-industry partnership is formed to execute the goals of this proposal combining the expertise on AI driven materials design (Singh@UofT), plasma characterization and multiphysics modeling (Mostaghimi@UofT), powder and battery materials synthesis (NRC), battery manufacturing and testing (Electrovaya Inc.), and commercialization and battery recycling (Hatch Ltd.) |
| 2023 | Tessitore, Gabriella | Université Laval | Photocatalytic Remediation Improving Mining Economy and Sustainability (PRIMES) | $639,000 | 3 | Rare earths (REEs) are principally exploited as core materials to produce permanent magnets, deemed fundamental for the advancement of communication and computing technologies. With an estimated 15.1 million tonnes of rare earth oxides available in Canada, their mining could represent a unique occasion for directly sourcing the required raw materials to the Canadian technological sector. REEs mining sustainability represents a concrete challenge due to the required harsh conditions for their extraction and separation. The processing of the ore minerals produces GHGs and other pollutant emissions (particulate matter, H2S, radionuclides), representing a serious environmental and health threat. Circular economy applied to the reprocessing of mining waste can improve the recovery of REEs and contribute to decarbonizing the mining sector while producing energy and enhancing the sustainability of the industry. Passive treatments like the photocatalytic remediation of mining waste represent an energetically valid and cost-effective solution. Some of the natural minerals occurring in REE ores are considered an emerging class of materials in photocatalysis. Using mining waste in photocatalysis represents a pioneering approach to reducing emissions while recovering critical minerals and producing energy. Within this project, we aim to: (i) characterize the REE mining waste in terms of mineral composition and emissions; (ii) synthesize each active component and investigate the photocatalytic efficiency in terms of REE recovery, emission reduction, and energy generation; (iii) select and study the most promising natural photocatalysts and provide a proof of concept for their use in mining waste reprocessing. Our industrial partner, Torngat Metals Ltd., is engaged in the development of this project and will provide guidance throughout it and samples of mining waste from different steps of the ore processing. Together with the partner, we are devoted to limiting the environmental impact of mining while engaging the Inuit, Innu, and Naskapi communities to help face the sustainability challenges of the mining sector. |
| 2023 | Tharmalingam, Sujeenthar | Laurentian University | A microbial sponge to mine the critical mineral gallium | $600,000 | 3 | Gallium is required in the production of semiconductors needed for all kinds of electronic devices. The recent worldwide semiconductor shortage was caused in part by a reduction in gallium exports by China, which produces 80% of the world's gallium. To meet the rising need for gallium, Canada and other countries need to find alternative sources of gallium. Gallium is not found as a mineral in nature, but as a by-product from mining bauxite to produce aluminum or in zinc ore deposits, both of which are heavily mined in Canada. However, the gallium produced in this manner is found in trace amounts in tailings ponds. Cost-effective and efficient methods are needed to extract the gallium from these sources. Here, we propose to partner with Biomine LTD to develop a microbial-based technology to collect gallium in tailings ponds. Previous work conducted by our team has identified a highly selective gallium chelator produced by bacteria that binds and removes gallium from its surroundings. Therefore, the primary aim of this NSERC Alliance grant is to develop a novel microbial-based solution for extracting gallium that is clean and cost-effective. Here, we plan to develop novel microbial strains with superior ability to produce the highly selective gallium chelator previously identified by our team. To accomplish this, a collaboration has been established with Biomine LTD and the academic research team led by Dr. Tharmalingam (NOSM University). This essential collaboration will allow merging the expertise of Biomine, a cleantech research-based company that excels in the development of custom-tailored eco-friendly microbial-based clean processing solutions, and Dr.Tharmalingam's research team with expertise in molecular biology, microbiology and gene editing technologies. Biomine will substantially contribute to the study design, execution of the experiments, interpretation of the results, and the future directions of the research outcomes. This study will lay the foundation for biotechnological processes that will provide a sustainable strategy to mine gallium. |
| 2023 | Wang, Xiaolei | University of Alberta | Battery Recycling for Efficient Utilization of Critical Minerals and Circular Economy | $1,326,000 | 3 | Critical minerals are the foundation on which modern technology is built upon; securing a stable critical mineral value chain is essential for future generations in Canada. The overachieving goal of the proposed research is to build a close loop of critical mineral elements in batteries (e.g., lithium-ion batteries, LIBs) by efficient recycling/upcycling technologies, making significant contributions to environment and sustainability. By collaborating with industrial partners, the research team aims to i) developing novel hydrometallurgical approach for effective collection of critical mineral elements including Li, Co, Ni, and graphite as well; ii) developing new strategies for efficient regeneration/upcycling of LIBs electrode; iii) developing technologies for other batteries recycling/reusing. The success of the proposed research brings economic, social and environmental benefits for Canada by realizing the collection and reutilization of these elements in spent batteries, and build a close loop of these critical minerals elements. It will significantly lower the price of LIBs dominated portable devices and vehicles, making them affordable to Canadians. It will also make significant contributions to not only the environment but also the national security of Canada by reducing the dependence on several key critical minerals. Considering the booming energy market, the success of the research will also help position Canada's leading role in suppling the world with responsibly sourced products, mitigating the risk of global supply chain disruption. The collaborative and multidisciplinary nature of the proposed research will provide extensive and diverse training opportunities in broad area. Highly qualified personnel (HQP) is expected to gain fundamental knowledges in many disciplines, hands-on skills and experiences, and leaderships through systematic study and training. Well-trained HQP will play key roles in both academia and relevant industries in the future, ensuring Canada's leadership in critical minerals for green and sustainable world. |
| 2023 | Waters, Kristian | McGill University | Mineral to materials - lithium for batteries | $1,098,420 | 3 | Lithium is rapidly becoming one of the most important metals for the transition to green energy and net zero. It is a vital component of lithium-ion batteries which power transportation and technology. Canada is blessed with a large volume of lithium deposits, but further research is required to ensure that the minerals are processed in an environmentally friendly manner, and that the lithium can subsequently be extracted and converted into the required compounds for battery manufacture. This research project will aim at better processing the lithium bearing minerals found in Canada, namely spodumene and petalite, and then use phosphoric acid to extract the lithium from these minerals. This will then be converted to lithium iron phosphate for testing as battery materials. Additionally, the waste minerals from the ore, and leaching residue, will be converted into zeolites for use in water treatment or carbon capture. Thus, this project will lead to a significant reduction in waste generation in addition to providing new knowledge in lithium extraction and processing. |
| 2023 | Williams-Jones, Anthony | McGill University | Lithium in Pegmatites - from Source to Sink | $1,086,150 | 3 | Successful exploration for lithium (a key critical and battery metal) in pegmatites will depend on a robust model for their origin. Hypotheses of lithium pegmatite genesis have been dominated by the ideas that these pegmatites crystallise from the last residues of granitic magmas and that crystallisation is controlled by a low viscosity boundary layer. Alternative hypotheses, which have received limited recent attention, are that they crystallise directly from partial melts of sedimentary protoliths and that hydrothermal fluids replace the boundary layer. This project will test these hypotheses by developing models that trace lithium mineralisation from source to sink in two of the most prospective pegmatite districts in Canada, the James Bay district of Northern Québec and the Yellowknife district of the Northwest Territories. The research will be conducted by the applicant (McGill University), co-applicants, G. Pearson and M. Steele-MacInnis (University of Alberta), research associates and students, in partnership with the Geological Survey of Canada (B. Kjarsgaard), the Ministère des Ressources Naturelles et des Forêts du Québec (H. Mvondo), Winsome Resources (James Bay) and North Arrow Minerals (Yellowknife). The objective will be to investigate: 1) the origin of selected lithium pegmatites by evaluating their potential sources (fractional crystallisation of a granitic magma or partial melting of metapelitic/greywacke paragneiss); and 2) the role of an aqueous phase in the evolution of these pegmatites. The research will make use of: 1) trace element and isotopic chemistry to determine the source and age of the pegmatitic (and granitic) magmas and, in the case of partial melting, also the paragneiss minerals hosting lithium, e.g., staurolite or cordierite; 2) melt (e.g., in peritectic garnet) and fluid inclusion analyses to determine the origin and nature of the magma, trace its evolution, establish the timing of fluid exsolution and ascertain the role of the fluid in magma evolution; and 3) partial melting experiments involving sedimentary protoliths to follow the path of lithium during progressive anatexis. The results of this research are expected to produce a comprehensive genetic model that will guide future exploration for lithium pegmatites in Canada. |
| 2023 | Young, Steven | University of Waterloo | Lumet - Sustainability standards and traceability of critical minerals value-chains | $1,040,701 | 3 | Lumet is a project that aims to illuminate the sustainability of metals and minerals along critical mineral value chains. It uses data-intensive sustainability science and metallurgical process modeling to advance Canadian knowledge of standards, and to build technical and management capacity for traceability. This will support business and policy decisions in response to the increasing demand for "sustainable" and "responsible" materials from downstream manufacturers and governments. Lumet partners with midstream producers of nickel, zinc and germanium to address the challenges of multiple and inconsistent sustainability standards, systems, and regulations that require environmental, social and governance practices. Lumet will also help them to improve their production efficiency, value-chain due diligence, responsible sourcing, and carbon accounting. The project combines engineering approaches with sustainability science and management methods: - To analyze the relevant sustainability standards for the Canadian context and map their requirements; - To create a taxonomy for classifying the value-chain processes, intermediates and products, and to model their thermodynamics and mass balances; - To conduct life cycle assessment according to the identified standards and examine the complexities and uncertainties, as well as the long-term benefits and constraints; - To perform process modeling and physical traceability testing of mineral production value chains. The partner organizations will provide facilities, material samples and production data, and share their insights on standards and their implications. The project's outcomes, including a modelling toolbox and recommendations, will be disseminated to industry, policy-makers and other stakeholders, to facilitate accurate and credible data-driven decisions, enhance sustainability measurement, reduce environmental impacts, and illuminate sustainability of value chains for Canada's critical minerals industry. |
| 2023 | Zhang, Jin | Western University | Graphene-Enhanced Solutions for Magnetic Critical Minerals Detection and Extraction from Electronic Waste | $519,000 | 3 | Electronic waste, or 'e-waste,' is the world's fastest-growing waste stream, projected to reach a staggering 74 million metric tons (Mt) by 2030. Unfortunately, the collection and recycling of e-waste remain below 18%, resulting in adverse consequences for well-being, the environment, and resource inefficiency. Thus, there's an urgent need to develop efficient e-waste recycling technologies. The primary aim of this partnership is to utilize graphene-based nanomaterials to lower costs and enhance the efficiency of critical mineral recycling from electronic waste. The research team at Western University will collaborate with an industrial partner to create a spintronic sensor using hybrid graphene, capable of quantitatively detecting various magnetic critical minerals in e-waste, especially from crushed waste printed circuit boards (WPCB). Furthermore, we will improve the recovery efficiency of magnetic critical minerals from WPCB and reduce environmental pollution by integrating the spintronic sensor with a bioleaching process. Trainees involved in this NSERC Alliance-Mission project will have the potential to become leaders in advanced manufacturing, the sensing industry, and waste management, contributing to the growth of our digital economy. The ultimate objective of this project is to significantly impact the Canadian manufacturing industry and bolster the sustainable Canadian economy by advancing spintronic sensor technology and harnessing critical minerals from Canada. |
| 2023 | Zhang, Yan | Memorial University of Newfoundland | Characterization and solvent extraction of rare earth elements | $801,000 | 3 | Rare earth elements (REEs), including scandium, yttrium, and fifteen lanthanides, are becoming increasingly important in the transition to a low-carbon, green economy due to their primary usage in permanent magnets, optics and lasers, catalysts, wind- and solar-energy conversion, and rechargeable batteries. Canada, despite being home to the most substantial reserves of REEs, has only recently commenced operations at its inaugural REE facility in Saskatchewan. The main barriers to the widespread hydrometallurgical processing of REEs are laborious procedures, economic and environmental concerns, and difficulties in identifying and separating REEs due to their physical and chemical similarity. To tackle these challenges, the proposed research aims to develop a two-level characterization strategy that combines the rapid X-ray fluorescence (XRF) method and the more accurate inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) for the determination of REEs based on their content levels in different feedstocks. Additionally, a generic methodology will be explored to assess the effectiveness of the extractant in the solvent-extraction separation of REEs from leachate solutions, utilizing density functional theory calculation, spectroscopic characterization, and experimental verification. Simulation and optimization methods will also be employed to reduce operating costs in the REE leaching and separation processes. Finally, cost-effective and environmentally friendly treatment technologies will be developed for liquid and solid wastes generated from REE processing to achieve nearly zero discharge of saline wastewater. By working closely with our industrial partner, the proposed research aims to generate valuable methodologies and insights, hence serving as a guiding framework for the development of the industrial-scale REE processing plant. Meanwhile, a unique environment will be created for the training of highly qualified personnel (HQP) in both fundamental and applied research. |
| 2023 | Zhao, Benzhong | McMaster University | Optimizing subsurface mining technologies for sustainable lithium production from brines | $379,970 | 3 | The research proposal focuses on optimizing subsurface mining technologies for the sustainable extraction of lithium from brines to meet the rising global demand driven by the electrification of the economy and the pervasive use of lithium-ion batteries. Traditional lithium mining methods, such as open-pit excavation and evaporation ponds, pose significant environmental challenges. Recently, direct lithium extraction of brines produced from deep underground emerged as a promising and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional lithium mining methods. However, compared with extensive research in surface extraction technologies, subsurface mining technology is in its nascent stages with limited study. Given the heterogeneous nature of Canada's lithium brine reserves in carbonate aquifers, the research aims to develop enhanced lithium brine production technologies that enhance the sweep efficiency and economic viability of subsurface lithium extraction. Specifically, we propose two innovative technologies, namely foam flooding and electrokinetics, for enhanced lithium brine production, which will be systematically investigated at different scales over the course of the project. The proposed research involves a combination of experimental work in microfluidic cells and core samples as well as numerical simulations to model brine flow and lithium-ion transport, followed by a cost-benefit analysis. Partnering with Natural Resources Canada and E3 Lithium, the project aspires to refine the lithium brine production technologies and position Canada as a leading, sustainable lithium producer. |
| 2023 | Zhao, Yang | Western University | Direct Recycling of Spent Solid-state Lithium and Sodium Batteries | $895,000 | 3 | To achieve the commitment of reducing carbon emissions by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, energy storage systems have great potential to help the world escape dependence on fossil fuels and adopt an environmentally friendly method to power our transportation. The global increase in electric mobility is driving demand for EV batteries, resulting in substantial growth in battery production over the next few years. There's also a significant increase in retiring EV batteries, with over 100 million expected to reach the end of their lifespan in the next decade. This presents an opportunity to build a more stable, resilient, efficient, and sustainable supply chain compared to the fossil-fuel and internal combustion engine vehicle industry. In addition, the transition to a clean energy system is poised to significantly elevate the demand for these minerals, signifying the energy sector's emergence as a prominent player in mineral markets. The key to pursuing this opportunity for critical minerals is battery recycling. Solid-state batteries (SSBs) have recently emerged as a promising alternative energy storage system due to their ability to overcome the safety concerns presented by the flammable liquid electrolytes (LEs) used in traditional Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Given that SSBs are still in the developmental phase and are yet to attain mass production, there is a substantial opportunity to meticulously strategize and establish recycling processes that will underpin a sustainable system. The primary goal of this Alliance-Mission project is to develop a comprehensive and novel route for the direct recycling of solid-state batteries. This project will strengthen Canada's capacity for critical minerals in the key elements (such as Li, Co, Ni, Mn, etc.) with state-of-the-art facilities alongside experienced industrial partners, positioning Canada as a world leader in the field of battery recycling and achieving the net-zero goal. |
| 2023 | Zou, Yu | University of Toronto | Recycling, Advanced Manufacturing and Post-Processing of Rare Earth Permanent Magnets | $1,500,000 | 3 | Rare earth (RE) permanent magnets, particularly neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnets, are critical for many green and digital technologies, including electric vehicles, wind power, sensors, and consumer electronics. With the transition of Canada's economy from fossil fuels to renewable energy, the demand for RE permanent magnets is expected to increase rapidly in Canada. The Canadian manufacturing sector heavily relies on overseas supplies of rare earth elements and its supply chain is under significant risk due to increasing demands for RE permanent magnets and emerging trade tensions. Our collaborative team will develop new recycling, powder synthesis, manufacturing, and post-processing processes to fabricate permanent magnet components using recycled magnets. Our team aims to achieve the following objectives: (1) develop angular powders using RE waste magnets, with an emphasis on adopting and optimizing the hydrogen decrepitation and jet milling processes; (2) develop an inductively coupled plasma process to fabricate spherical NdFeB powder using angular powder; (3) employ powder metallurgy and additive manufacturing methods to fabricate new RE magnet products; (4) optimize post-processing treatments to improve magnetic properties with target magnetic performance higher than 90% of the original magnet. This project will support the development of a domestic circular supply chain for RE metals. By recycling RE metals from end-of-life magnets, the outcome of this project will support a steady, domestic source of RE magnets to related industries while reducing waste and environmental impact. The addition of recycled RE magnets to the market will reduce the overall cost of electric vehicles, wind power, and other green energy technologies as well as support supply chain security. The project will train 21 highly qualified personnel to support the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy and its long-term plans, from recycling to re-manufacturing. |
| 2023 | Liu, Jian | The University of British Columbia | Recycling and Upcycling of Graphite Anodes from Spent Lithium-ion Batteries | $992,348 | 3 | The ever-increasing production of Li-ion batteries will result in the accumulation of used battery components containing heavy metals and toxic chemicals as the batteries reach the end of their lives. Graphite, the primary anode used in Li-ion batteries, accounts for ~20% of the weight of batteries powering electric vehicles and over 15% of the battery's economic value. However, spent graphite anodes are either burned for energy or landfilled due to the complex and energy-intensive recycling processes. Therefore, developing a cost-effective and scalable recycling approach to recover graphite anodes is imperative to lessen the environmental impacts and economic cost of spent Li-ion batteries. The objectives of this research are to 1. develop an efficient microwave-assisted recycling approach to regenerate and upcycle spent graphite, 2. prove the feasibility of recycled graphite in Li-ion batteries, 3. deepen mechanistic understanding of microwave heating in spent graphite regeneration, and 4. quantify the environmental and economic impacts of the new recycling method versus conventional processes. The project team consists of an interdisciplinary group of researchers at the University of British Columbia and the University of Alberta for the recycling technology development and environmental/economic assessment. Our team also includes two partner organizations with solid expertise and operation experience in Li-ion battery manufacturing (E-One Moli Energy) and knowledge mobilization (Metal Tech Alley). The partners will engage in co-designing the research plan, supplying spent Li-ion batteries, providing knowledge and baseline data for conventional recycling processes, and validating the upcycled graphite in commercial Li-ion batteries. The success of this project will advance Canadian knowledge and processes for sustainable recycling of spent graphite anodes, reduce reliance on graphite mining, and develop a domestic battery circular economy by recycling and reusing critical materials locally. |