Developing custom reagent formulations that enhance flotation selectivity and hydrometallurgical efficiency has enabled mining chemicals and metallurgical processing group BME Metallurgy to address the growing challenges of processing complex, finely ground refractory orebodies, where reagent performance is more critical than it has ever been, the company says.

South African orebodies are becoming increasingly complex, with higher impurity levels, lower head-grades and more refractory mineralogy, consequently requiring finer grinding and more selective processing to achieve acceptable recoveries, says BME Metallurgy business development manager Daniel Verwey.

Standard reagent formulations frequently fail to meet current process requirements, and ore variability necessitates ongoing optimisation and adjustment, he notes.

Therefore, BME Metallurgy commits to research and development, analytical testing and client-by-client formulation development to address these challenges efficiently.

The technologies being introduced include optimised frother chemistry which, when implemented correctly, can reduce chemical consumption by up to 50% while achieving improved recovery and grade.

Improving solvent extraction efficiency technologies allows for lower organic-to-aqueous ratios, thereby improving throughput and performance, in addition to reducing organic losses.

Improved impurity management is also enabling BME to work on increasing the hydrometallurgical throughput of clients by up to 20%.

“These technologies improve the overall efficiency of mineral processing circuits, helping to offset the higher operating costs associated with finer grinding,” says Verwey.

BME’s advanced technologies also offer measurable improvements, including metallurgical throughput, which has been proven through recent operational results from clients’ applications, offering improved impurity management.

Verwey says BME Metallurgy has been working on a greenfield rare earth element project, which has been in existence for several decades: “Over the past few months, we have worked closely with our client and our partners to run in-house piloting testwork of a novel unit process, turning an unfeasible project into something economically viable.”

Across the Board

Rather than offering generic solutions, the company develops site-specific reagent programmes that can be adapted to a wide range of commodities.

“The company’s technologies are used across flotation and hydrometallurgical applications and are suitable for commodities including copper, cobalt, gold, uranium, platinum-group metals, rare earth elements and other critical minerals,” adds BME Metallurgy GM Lefa Masiuana.

For example, in copper operations, improved acid mist suppressants enhance worker safety during electrowinning, while advanced solvent extraction reagents improve extraction efficiency and throughput.

In customising solutions for specific miners, he adds that the company is positioning itself as a metallurgical solutions provider rather than simply a chemical supplier. This is evident in its provision of a comprehensive range of services, including assistance with client applications, product testing in laboratories and manufacturing facilities, process improvement, compliance with safety and environmental standards, supplier relationship management, staff training, technical reviews and ongoing operational support.

To ensure reliable service delivery, the company maintains key facilities in various regions, sources materials from multiple suppliers and fosters strong supplier relationships. These measures enable the company to respond promptly and effectively to customer needs across Southern Africa.

“As mineral processing becomes more complex and sustainability expectations continue to rise, mining companies increasingly require partners that combine technical expertise with innovative chemistry,” says Masiuana.

With more than 40 years of metallurgical experience, BME Metallurgy also continues to expand its portfolio of selective, efficient and environmentally responsible reagents while supporting clients through technical service, process optimisation and reliable supply.

“We have positioned ourselves as a trusted partner. This is underpinned by our ability to deliver integrated, site-specific solutions that enhance recovery, reduce environmental impact and support long-term operational success,” concludes Masiuana.