Mining, Metal Recovery & Recycling
At Sulzer, we provide advanced separation and purification technologies that empower producers to recover metals efficiently and sustainably whether from conventional ores or secondary feedstocks. By combining process know-how with proven engineering, we help operators optimize hydrometallurgical plants, reduce their environmental footprint, and improve long-term competitiveness.
Battery metals recovery
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Lithium
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Cobalt
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Nickel
Catalyst metals recovery
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Platinum
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Palladium
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Rhodium
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Rare earth elements
Precious metals recovery
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Gold
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Silver
Hydrometallurgical Solutions
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Acidic and alkaline leach solutions for metal extraction
Solvent Extraction & Purification Agents
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Organic solvents used in metal separation
Wastewater Treatment Chemicals
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For effluent from metal recovery processes
Main applications of mining and metal processing industry
Enabling Sustainable Metal Recovery from Ores and Secondary Resources
The world’s demand for critical metals is rising sharply, fueled by the energy transition, electrification, and advanced manufacturing. At the same time, ore grades are declining, processes are becoming more complex, and environmental regulations are tightening. Alongside traditional mining, secondary raw materials such as e-waste, spent batteries, and industrial residues are becoming key sources of valuable metals.
Operating in today’s chemical sector means addressing multiple, interconnected challenges:
Complex and variable feedstocks
Low-grade ores, impurities, and diverse secondary sources such as e-waste or batteries require flexible, high-performance recovery processes.
High energy and chemical intensity
Conventional methods consume large amounts of reagents and utilities, raising costs and emissions.
Sustainability and ESG targets
Companies are under pressure to lower CO₂ footprints and contribute to circular economy objectives.
Operational reliability
Hydrometallurgical plants must operate continuously with minimal downtime, despite corrosive environments and fluctuating feed qualities.
Our solutions create measurable value by tackling the key challenges faced in both mining and recycling. In mining, they improve recovery and purity of metals, ensuring efficient utilization of ores and the treatment of secondary raw materials such as tailings and residues. In recycling, they enable the processing of end-of-life batteries and electronic waste with high efficiency and selectivity. Optimized solvent use, reduced energy demand, and integrated process design lower operating costs while minimizing effluents, solvent losses, and waste streams. The robustness and versatility of our technology allows it to adapt to diverse feedstocks and operating conditions, with performance validated through pilot testing and supported by lifecycle services. As a result, operators can secure critical resources more efficiently, reduce their environmental footprint, and contribute to the transition toward a sustainable, circular economy.
Explore our solutions for mining and metal processing industry
Explore our references for mining and metal processing industry
Mining and metal processing
Qinghai, China
Achieving over 99% lithium recovery with a simplified process
Challenge:
Improve lithium recovery from brines while reducing the complexity, footprint, and solvent usage & losses of traditional mixer-settler systems (20–30 units), which caused high CAPEX/OPEX, long residence times, and environmental risks.
Solution:
OptimEXT™ system with Kühni™ agitated columns in a compact, fully enclosed design; conducted full-scale pilot trials at ISL’s site to optimize process parameters and column internals for high separation efficiency.
Technology:
Results:
Achieved >99% lithium recovery, reduced solvent inventory by up to 60%, cut plant footprint by 60–70%, minimized VOC emissions and environmental impact, and lowered both CAPEX and OPEX while ensuring process safety and sustainability.
150+ Years Experience
Proven track record in chemical process engineering and equipment manufacturing.
Global Presence
Worldwide support network with local expertise and rapid response capabilities.
Quality Assurance
ISO certified processes and rigorous quality control for reliable, safe operations.