Progress in beneficiating South Africa's minerals
Progress in the beneficiation of the country's rich mineral endowments will come under the spotlight when researchers, industry and government stakeholders in the precious metals sector convene for the Department of Science and Technology's annual Advanced Metals Initiative (AMI) conference.
The AMI's Precious Metals Development Network will host this annual gathering of platinum group metal and gold sector stakeholders in Polokwane from 18 to 19 October.
The AMI consists of four research and development networks – for light metals, precious metals, nuclear materials, and ferrous and base metals. They are tasked with innovating and developing technologies and products across the advanced metal value chain.
The strategic objective of the AMI is to generate economic growth, skills and increased competitiveness through targeted research, development and innovation programmes.
The AMI projects provide opportunities to develop skills aligned with the beneficiation and manufacturing goals of the programme.
Mintek, the mineral processing council leading work in the Precious Metal Development Network, will lead the conference, together with the South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.
While South Africa is home to several of the world's biggest raw mineral deposits, there is very little beneficiation, and most metals are exported raw.
Expected outcomes of the AMI include the commercialisation in new industries, the local manufacture of products currently imported, and enhancing the competitiveness of existing local industry.
Researchers and industry players will make presentations on progress made over the past few years in research and development regarding precious metals. There will be exhibitions from companies and a significant focus on human capital development.
Details of the conference
Venue: Protea Ranch Hotel in Polokwane
Day 1
Date: Wednesday, 18 October
Time: 07:30–16:00
Day 2
Date: Thursday, 19 October
Time: 07:30–15:50
For media attendance, please contact:
Thabang Setlhare
Cell: 072 659 9690
Julian Leshilo
Cell: 084 597 9068
