By Mintek
Randburg, South Africa – Mintek’s PGM Industry Day concluded successfully, bringing together leaders from across the platinum group metals (PGM) value chain to explore the technologies, partnerships, and innovations needed to strengthen the sector’s global competitiveness.
The event attracted mining companies, researchers, technology developers, equipment suppliers and industry stakeholders for a day of insightful discussions on the future of PGM processing, digitalisation, sustainability and operational excellence.
Throughout the programme, delegates explored emerging technologies that can improve efficiency, reduce operational costs and unlock greater value from South Africa’s world-leading PGM resources. Presentations highlighted the importance of collaborative research and innovation in addressing industry challenges while positioning the sector for long-term growth.
Opening discussions reinforced Mintek’s commitment to supporting the mining industry through world-class research, technology development, and practical solutions that respond to evolving market demands.
Participants also had the opportunity to engage directly with technical experts, exchange ideas, and identify opportunities for collaboration that will accelerate the commercialisation and adoption of new technologies.
Speaking at the event, Hydrometallurgy Executive Manager Dr Elmar Muller, reflected on the strong industry participation and how Mintek is playing an important role in South Africa’s transition to a cleaner energy future by developing technologies that support decarbonisation, energy storage, critical minerals, and the hydrogen economy.
“We are developing cleaner metallurgical technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One example is the HAIMan process, which replaces carbon with hydrogen and aluminium in manganese ferroalloy production. The process eliminates direct CO₂ emissions during reduction and converts waste materials into useful by-products, supporting greener mineral processing,” Dr Muller said.
Mintek’s Pyrometallurgy Executive Manager, Dr Elias Matinde, said the event demonstrated the value of bringing the industry together to solve common challenges.
“By uniting expertise and resources, as industry professionals, we can address shared challenges effectively to enhance overall productivity and sustainability. Such events are crucial for networking, knowledge sharing, and driving advancements that benefit everyone involved.
The positive engagement throughout the day underscored the industry’s shared commitment to innovation, knowledge exchange, and partnerships that will shape the future of platinum group metals.
As South Africa continues to play a leading role in global PGM production, initiatives such as Mintek’s PGM Industry Day provide an important platform for industry leaders to collaborate on practical solutions that enhance sustainability, competitiveness and technological advancement.
Building on the momentum generated during the event, Mintek will continue working closely with industry partners to develop technologies that support a modern, resilient and globally competitive mining sector.
Source: Novus Group – Press Bulletin
