Nitrate treatment in subarctic environment
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | IVL Svenska Miljöinstitutet AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 300 000 |
| Project duration | November 2025 - May 2026 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Impact Innovation Water Wave Societies - Programme-specific interventions |
| Call | Impact Innovation: Realise innovative solutions with customers within Water Wise Societies 2025 |
Purpose and goal
When mining ore, nitrogen-based explosives are used and it is inevitable that undetonated explosive residues and spills come into contact with water in the mine and refining process, whereby nitrate is washed out into the process water. The goal of the project is to develop a sustainable nitrogen purification solution for LKAB in Kiruna and to make a plan for future trials.
Expected effects and result
Expected results with the project are twofold: 1) to develop a sustainable nitrogen purification solution for LKAB in Kiruna based on precipitation, combined with denitrification and phosphorus purification, 2) to develop a plan for testing the purification system.
Planned approach and implementation
The project is being implemented in two work packages (WP). WP 1 concerns status assessment and data basis and includes: (1) Compilation of measurement data, previous investigations and trials, (2) Workshop and site visit in Kiruna on experiences and opportunities, (3) Compilation of status in report form, (4) Selection of process design. WP 2 concerns Planning of trials and includes identifying where equipment is available, selection of trial location and basis for a stage 2-project.