Successful Demonstration of Calcination and Reduction of Nickel Ore Using Microwave-based Bench-scale Equipment

Pacific Metals Co.,Ltd.
Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd.

Pacific Metals Co.,Ltd. (“PAMCO”) and Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd. (“MWCC”) have successfully achieved the calcination and reduction of nickel ore using a standard microwave bench-scale equipment. Both companies will collaboratively continue testing with this equipment to validate the scaling-up process, aiming for the commercial deployment of the technology by 2030.

PAMCO and MWCC have been conducting laboratory investigations since 2022 to replace the coal combustion traditionally used in nickel ore smelting – a significant source of CO2 emissions – with electricity-powered microwaves. In our recent bench-scale tests, we successfully calcined approximately 10 kg of nickel ore by heating it to 900°C using microwaves, which facilitated the removal of crystalline water within the ore. Furthermore, when coal was used as a reducing agent in the calcination process, the reduction of nickel and iron in the ore progressed effectively, achieving reduction rates comparable to those observed in traditional rotary kilns.

Moving forward, we will continue to use this standard bench-scale equipment to conduct continuous feed tests. This will allow us to gather data on material and heat balances. Based on these data, we will identify challenges for scaling up to commercial deployment and perform economic feasibility studies.

*1　　Press release from April 24, 2024
“Completed Innovative Microwave Bench Equipment for Carbon Neutrality in Metal Smelting and Mining”
https://mwcc.jp/post_en/press_release/3397/
*2　　Thermal treatment process to completely remove crystalline water contained in ores by heating them to high temperatures
*3　　Press release from August 23, 2023
“Joint Development of Microwave-based Nickel Smelting Technology – Aiming to establish a significant energy-saving and decarbonization process –“
https://mwcc.jp/post_en/press_release/2787/