Proof of concept: Algae technology for mine water treatment (NARMIN II)
Purpose and goal
NARMIN II builds on a successful feasibility study in which Nordic microalgae demonstrated a strong capacity to absorb heavy metals from mine water, particularly when growth was stimulated using bio-ash from the forest industry.
Expected effects and results
Within this two-year project, an algae-based treatment system at pilot scale will be installed and operated at a mining site and tested and optimized across all seasons. The aim is to develop a scalable, passive biological method to improve water quality after conventional mine water treatment, with minimal climate impact.
Planned approach and implementation
Since mine water can be nutrient-poor, phosphorus will be supplied via bio-ash and nitrogen via a nearby flow of wastewater from toilet systems, creating a fully circular nutrient supply. After the treatment process, the metals can potentially be “recovered,” and the algae can be used as raw material for bioplastics or for bioenergy production. Circular flows of nutrients, water, and metals are thus enabled. The project paves the way for broader application within the mining industry and other sectors.
This English version is an AI-assisted translation prepared for the Swedish Metals & Minerals website. It has not been reviewed or approved by the project team or the funding agency.