Prof. Dr. Mohd Hasbi bin Ab Rahim, Assistant Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) has welcomed the i-CATS University College Delegation led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emeritus Datuk Ts. Dr. Mohamad Kadim bin Suaidi. The discussions focused on the potential collaborations in research and development of rare earth element (REE) technology processes, the implementation of joint research projects, academic study opportunities and various technology development initiatives that benefit both parties. The delegation was taken to visit the Mineral Laboratory of the Sustainability of Mineral & Resource Recovery Technology (SMRRT) Centre to see the research facilities, laboratory capabilities and research activities related to minerals and rare earth elements. The two research facilities at SMRRT are:
1. Ionic leaching of REE from Ion Adsorption Clay (IAC)
Ion adsorption clays are an important source of rare earth elements, where the REEs are weakly bound to clay mineral surfaces through electrostatic forces rather than being incorporated into mineral crystal lattices. This characteristic allows REEs to be extracted through ionic leaching, in which a suitable lixiviant (ammonium sulphate or magnesium sulphate) containing positively charged ions is brought into contact with the clay and exchanges with the REE ions. The displaced REEs are released into the leaching solution and subsequently recovered from the resulting pregnant leach solution. The in-situ leaching approach is considered for considered for ionic leaching of IAC.
2. Solvent Extraction for REE separation
Solvent extraction (SX) is the process for the purification and separation of rare earth elements from a pregnant leach solution generated through ionic leaching of IAC. During extraction, REEs are selectively transferred from an aqueous solution into the organic phase, followed by scrubbing to remove impurities and stripping to recover purified REEs. Multiple extraction stages arranged in counter-current circuits are typically required to achieve the high purity needed for commercial applications. SMRRT has a solvent extraction pilot plant equipped with a 20-stage mixer-settler system.
The visit has given exposure to the ionic leaching of rare earth elements from ion adsorption clay (IAC) and solvent extraction for rare earth element separation processes.
