The metals company Inc. (Nasdaq: TMC) has successfully produced the world’s first cobalt sulphate derived exclusively from seafloor polymetallic nodules. The cobalt sulphate was generated during bench-scale testing of TMC’s hydrometallurgical flowsheet design with SGS Canada Inc. The test work was carried out at SGS’ Metallurgical Centre of Excellence testing facility in Lakefield, Ontario.
“This achievement further demonstrates the potential for seafloor polymetallic nodules as a valuable resource,” said Dr. Jeffrey Donald, TMC Head of Onshore Development. “Following the success of our first nickel sulphate production in April, production of the world’s first cobalt sulphate from deep-seafloor nodules is another important milestone for TMC and for creating a responsible supply of metals required for human flourishing. SGS continues to execute at a high level and this milestone demonstrates the viability of our process and our dedication to near-zero solid waste nodule processing.”
Based on samples of nickel-cobalt-copper matte first produced by TMC in 2021, the extractive metallurgy team at SGS tested TMC’s efficient flowsheet to process high-grade nickel-copper-cobalt matte directly to high-purity cobalt sulphate without making cobalt metal, while producing fertilizer byproducts instead of solid waste or tailings. This milestone follows last month’s successful production of nickel sulphate, a key raw material input used in the production of energy-dense electric vehicle batteries.
Carlos Cordoba, Vice President of Natural Resources at SGS North America, commented: “SGS is pleased to support TMC in achieving another milestone towards commercialization of polymetallic nodules suitable for the battery chemicals market. Our technical expertise in extractive metallurgy is driving innovation in the mining industry and we look forward to continuing to set the benchmark as a trusted service provider at every stage of the mining project lifecycle.”
TMC and SGS’ success in deriving cobalt sulphate from seafloor polymetallic nodules is a key milestone in advancing TMC’s mission to supply metals for the global energy transition with the least possible negative impacts on planet and people.
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