PRIM-ROCK

A microwave plasma system to decompose hydrogen sulphide generated in foundries and valorise the sulphur and hydrogen produced.

The PRIM-ROCK project improves the resource efficiency of the calcination and roasting processes, that are commonly used in the mineral and cement industries. To this end, process simulations in collaboration with AI data-driven models are used, and a digital twin for each process is developed.

PRIM-ROCK addresses process efficiency through a multifaceted strategy addressing industrial processes from input to output, supported by an ambitious digital framework and transversal supporting activities.

In particular, advanced techniques for the pre-processing of the raw material are deployed to enhance its efficiency according to the requirements of the process, supplemented by simulations and decision support systems to increase the operational limits of flexibility in the feedstock domain.

Additionally, the process intensification component of the project designs, develops, and validates innovative and efficient processes, as well as optimizing the existing ones. The aim is to develop a portfolio of technologies to a higher resource efficiency and lower level of greenhouse gas emissions of extractive industries.

Finally, waste reduction and re-utilisation strategies are investigated targeting to the real-time processes’ adjustment capabilities to feedstock changes and tighter processing control solutions.

The PRIM-ROCK solutions will be demonstrated in 3 different ASPIRE sectors, namely minerals (magnesite, laterite), cement (limestone) and non-ferrous metals (sphalerite, chalcopyrite).

Eurecat participates in the PRIM-ROCK project through its New Manufacturing Processes Unit, responsible for research, fine-tuning and finally the use of the pilot plant in which microwave plasma device will allow the reduction or elimination of harmful gases generated in those minerals.

The consortium is composed of seven SMEs along with six RTDs, three universities and five large enterprises from across Europe.