Lignin is the new reagent-based solution in mining
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Luleå tekniska universitet - Luleå tekniska universitet Inst f samhällsbygg & naturresurser |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 2 678 733 |
| Project duration | March 2023 - February 2026 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | The strategic innovation programme for Swedish mining and metal producing industry - SIP Swedish Mining Innovation |
| Call | Secure sustainable metal and mineral supply |
Important results from the project
The project achieved its goals by demonstrating that lignin-based flotation reagents can replace a significant share of fossil-based chemicals while maintaining or improving metal recovery and selectivity. The technology was validated in continuous pilot-scale tests under industrially relevant conditions. The project also showed that technical lignin from European biorefineries enables large-scale implementation and new value chains between the bioeconomy and mining sector.
Expected long term effects
The project is expected to support a long-term transition towards more sustainable mining by enabling replacement of fossil-based flotation reagents with bio-based alternatives. This can reduce environmental impact and strengthen supply security. The results also create opportunities for new value chains where technical lignin from biorefineries is utilized in the mining sector, contributing to increased circularity and industrial symbiosis.
Approach and implementation
LIGNOMIN was led by Ulrika Rova at Luleå University of Technology (LTU) and done in collaboration with Boliden Mineral, ONar Sweden, and Bottenvikens Bryggeri. LTU produced and characterized lignin-based reagents from various feedstocks, including technical lignin and agro-industrial side streams, and performed flotation tests. Boliden contributed ore samples and evaluation of reagent performance. ONar contributed expertise in scale-up, while Bottenvikens Bryggeri provided brewer’s spent grain.