Mining & Mineral Processing
A technical and policy overview of how metals are extracted, processed, and refined — from ore discovery through beneficiation, smelting, and refining. Covers conventional and artisanal mining, environmental considerations, and emerging processing technologies.
Metals U Education
Program Features
- Self-paced
- Online
- Interactive LMS Content
- Blockchain-based Certificate
Program Features
- Self-paced
- Online
- Interactive LMS Content
- Blockchain-based Certificate
Description
From Ore to Metal: The Science and Economics of Mineral Processing
Before a metal can power a battery, reinforce an aircraft, or enable a semiconductor, it must first be extracted from the Earth and transformed through a complex series of physical and chemical processes. Understanding these processes — and the economics, environmental impacts, and technical constraints surrounding them — is essential for anyone working in the critical minerals space.
This course provides a rigorous grounding in mining and mineral processing, drawing on resources from the National Academies of Sciences, World Bank, IISD, and the U.S. Department of Energy. Topics span surface and underground mining, comminution and flotation, hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical refining, and the evolving landscape of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM).
Who This Class Is For
- Mining engineers and geologists entering the field
- Policy professionals working on mining regulation
- ESG and sustainability professionals
- Investors evaluating mining projects
Program Syllabus
Module 1: Introduction to the Mining Value Chain
Exploration, feasibility, development, operations, and closure. Types of mining operations (open pit, underground, in-situ leaching).
Module 2: Ore Characterization & Beneficiation
Ore grades and mineralogy. Crushing, grinding, and size reduction. Flotation, gravity separation, and magnetic separation.
Module 3: Hydrometallurgy & Pyrometallurgy
Leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning. Smelting and refining. Trade-offs between methods for different ore types.
Module 4: Artisanal & Small-Scale Mining
Global ASM landscape. Formalization challenges and opportunities. Social and environmental dimensions. IISD policy frameworks.
Module 5: Environmental Management in Mining
Acid mine drainage. Tailings management and failures. Water and land rehabilitation. Climate-smart mining approaches.
Module 6: Technology Innovation in Mining & Processing
Automation and digitalization. Bioleaching and novel extraction methods. DOE and NETL research programs on critical mineral recovery.