A characterization study on nickel laterite mine waste towards the application of circular economy in the Philippine mining industry

อาจารย์Abigael Balbin

School of Engineering, University of San Carlos, Talamban, Cebu City, Philippines and Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development, Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCIEERD), Bicutan, Taguig City, 163

อาจารย์Jobelle Capilitan

School of Engineering, University of San Carlos, Talamban, Cebu City, Philippines and 2College of Engineering and Geosciences, Caraga State University, Butuan City, Philippines

อาจารย์Evelyn Taboada

School of Engineering, University of San Carlos, Talamban, Cebu City, Philippines

อาจารย์Ian Dominic Tabañag

School of Engineering, University of San Carlos, Talamban, Cebu City, Philippines and Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development, Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCIEERD), Bicutan, Taguig City, 163

คำสำคัญ

mining waste, mine waste management, Philippine mining, waste utilization, circular economy

บทคัดย่อ

Nickel laterite mining is one of the major mining activities of the Caraga region in the Philippines. Massive amounts of waste are produced during the extraction process and are typically left on the site. In this study, nickel laterite mine waste was characterized as an important initial component in the application of a circular economy in the Philippine mining industry. A circular economy model for nickel laterite mines in the Philippines was also proposed. The chemical composition analysis showed low-grade elements and their oxides which were uneconomical to extract. The pH was at a normal to moderately alkaline level and the organic matter was at a level acceptable for plant growth but low to support soil for prevention of soil erosion. To apply the circular economy concept, the waste could either be reused or repurposed. The elements in the waste could be further extracted by metallurgical processing when an economical way of doing it was established. Bioprocessing and phytomining could also be used to concentrate the metals. The mined-out areas could potentially be utilized in renewable energy production like solar, wind, and biomass. The use of waste in the production of bricks, ceramic tiles, and other products was also seen as a possible option. The implementation of a circular economy in the Philippine mining industry was at a very early stage and it needed the support and commitment from the government, industry, academe, community, and other stakeholders.

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