Thomas Aiglsperger, Associate Professor in Applied Geochemistry and scientific leader of CAMM.
7 February 2025
By-products become resources in the future mining and metallurgical industry
From 2025 onwards, the Centre for Advanced Mining and Metallurgy (CAMM) at Luleå University of Technology will receive increased funding to further develop its research on sustainable mining and metal extraction. CAMM is highlighted as a key research hub in the Swedish government's Research and Innovation Bill. The initiative focuses on reducing the industry's environmental impact and developing solutions for a more circular and fossil-free production of critical metals.
“With this funding, we can strengthen our efforts to reduce carbon emissions and develop fossil-free metal production. We are exploring how electricity and bio-based fuels can replace fossil fuels in extraction processes,” says Thomas Aiglsperger, Scientific Director at CAMM.
Research for the Future of Metal Production
The research at Luleå University of Technology goes beyond simply replacing fossil fuels. A significant part of the work focuses on improving recycling processes and utilising industrial by-products to create a more circular material flow. The new funding will enable the expansion of ongoing projects as well as the launch of new initiatives, particularly in the exploration and recycling of metals such as lithium and cobalt, which are crucial for the development of green energy technologies.
“It is important that we invest in research at a low Technology Readiness Level (TRL), as this allows us to test innovative ideas that can transform the industry in the long term,” says Thomas Aiglsperger.
Challenges and International Collaborations
Despite the great opportunities ahead, CAMM also faces challenges that must be overcome to achieve its goals. These include the need for additional laboratory space and difficulties in recruiting international researchers due to visa restrictions.
To ensure a sustainable and stable supply of critical metals—essential for green energy and technology—CAMM views international collaborations as a key part of the solution.
“By collaborating with resource-rich countries and other research institutions, we aim to build more robust supply chains and promote global sustainability solutions that benefit both industry and the environment,” says Thomas Aiglsperger.
Bridging Research and Industry
One of CAMM’s objectives is to serve as a platform where research, industry, and public stakeholders can collaborate to accelerate the transition to a fossil-free and sustainable mining and metals industry. The research has already provided industry with better tools to predict and manage the environmental impact of mining operations.
“We hope that through collaboration, we can scale up our solutions and make them accessible to more industry players,” says Thomas Aiglsperger.
Facts
CAMM focuses on five core research areas along the mining value chain:
- Prospecting
- Mineral processing
- Environment
- Metallurgy
- Mining
In the research and innovation proposition, the Centre for Advanced Mining and Metallurgy (CAMM) at Luleå University of Technology is highlighted as a key arena for targeted basic research in Sweden and receives long-term funding. The government aims to further strengthen research in critical and strategic metals and minerals, an important area for the green transition and strategically vital for Sweden.
In the budget proposition for 2025, SEK 30 million is allocated to Luleå University of Technology for research in this area. This will be followed by SEK 30 million in 2026, SEK 35 million in 2027, and SEK 50 million in 2028.
Contact
Thomas Aiglsperger
- Associate Professor
- 0920-491016
- thomas.aiglsperger@ltu.se
- Thomas Aiglsperger
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