2025 RTP round - Optimising the acid cracking process for enhanced rare earths recovery.

Curtin University, Australia

Updated: 3 days ago
Location: Perth, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Status: Open

Applications open: 1/07/2024
Applications close: 20/08/2024

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About this scholarship

 

Project Overview

Rare earth elements (REEs) are expected to play a crucial role in the global transition to a low-carbon future due to their wide-range of applications such as in high-performance magnets, EVs, and specialty alloys. REE production generally follows a complex flowsheet involving beneficiation, acid cracking, leaching, precipitation and solvent extraction.  The acid cracking step facilitates in breaking down the rare earth minerals and make them more amenable for leaching. As such, there is significant opportunity to optimise REE recovery in the acid cracking process by understanding the deportment of REEs in the concentrate feed and the partitioning of REEs in the intermediate products generated via the acid cracking circuit.

 

Aims

In this project, the main focus will be to enhance the efficiency of REE recovery via the acid cracking process by extensive characterisation of REE concentrate feed, calcine and leach residues; and investigating the relationship between REE recovery and factors such as kiln operating temperature, acid addition, and residence time among others. These will help fill existing research gaps related to REE extraction through enhanced understanding of kiln operation and REE distribution and behaviour during the acid cracking process.

 

Objectives

To achieve the above-mentioned aims, the objective of this project are as follows: 
• To achieve an understanding of current industry performance by extensive characterisation of REE concentrate feed, calcine, and leach residue. 
• To enhance REE recovery in the acid cracking process by optimising rotary kiln performance and better operational control.

 

Significance

This project addresses critical knowledge gaps in understanding the complex behaviour of REEs during the acid cracking process. By enhancing process efficiency and REE recovery rates, it will contribute to cost-effective and sustainable production of rare earth materials, which are crucial for various high-tech applications including electronics, renewable energy, and transportation.

 

The collaboration between Curtin University and our industry partner aims to leverage expertise and resources to tackle pressing challenges in rare earth element extraction. With access to laboratory and industry-scale facilities and plant data, this project is well-positioned to conduct comprehensive research and potentially implement practical solutions to enhanced REE recovery. The significance of this project lies in its potential to enhance the economic viability and environmental sustainability of REE production, meeting growing market demands while minimising waste generation.

 

An internship may be available for this project. The successful student has an opportunity to do an internship at our industry partner, where he/she can learn about the standard industrial practices related to REE production.


  • Future Students

  • Faculty of Science & Engineering
    • Science courses
    • Engineering courses
    • Western Australian School of Mines (WASM)

  • Higher Degree by Research

  • Australian Citizen
  • Australian Permanent Resident
  • New Zealand Citizen
  • Permanent Humanitarian Visa
  • International Student

  • Merit Based

The annual scholarship package, covering both stipend and tuition fees, amounts to approximately $70,000 per year.

In 2024, the RTP stipend scholarship offers $35,000 per annum for a duration of up to three years. Exceptional progress and adherence to timelines may qualify students for a six-month completion scholarship.

Selection for these scholarships involves a competitive process, with shortlisted applicants notified of outcomes by November 2024.


Scholarship Details

1


All applicable HDR courses.


A background in Metallurgical Engineering or related field coupled with strong communication and interpersonal skills is essential. Candidates with experience in the use analytical techniques for mineralogical characterisation (XRD, SEM-EDS, MLA, DSC-TG/DTA), experimental design, and process optimisation will be assessed highly. Familiarity with REE extraction processes and safe laboratory practices is also beneficial.
 


Application process

Please send your CV, academic transcripts and brief rationale why you want to join this research project via the HDR expression of interest form to the project lead researcher, listed below. 


Enrolment Requirements

You must be enrolled in a Higher Degree by Research Course at Curtin University by March 2025.


Enquiries

Project Lead: Dr Jonah Gamutan



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