NARMIN II – Proof of concept: Algae technology for mine water treatment

The project will design, install, and operate a pilot-scale algae-based mine water treatment system at an industrially relevant site. The system will be evaluated across seasons, optimized for variable water qualities, and supported by laboratory studies focusing on algal productivity, metal biosorption, and nutrient supplementation using bioash.

Project duration:
1 December 2025 – 30 November 2027

Background

NARMIN II builds on the successful NARMIN feasibility study, in which Nordic microalgae demonstrated strong capacity to take up and remove heavy metals from mine wastewater, especially when growth was stimulated with sustainable wood-based ash. This nature-based, low-energy treatment concept aligns with circular economy principles and offers a promising alternative to chemical-intensive methods. To move toward industrial adoption, the technology now requires pilot-scale validation under real environmental conditions in northern Sweden.

Project Description

The project will design, install, and operate a pilot-scale algae-based mine water treatment system at an industrially relevant site. The system will be evaluated across seasons, optimized for variable water qualities, and supported by laboratory studies focusing on algal productivity, metal biosorption, and nutrient supplementation using bioash.

NARMIN II will also investigate metal desorption and recovery from algal biomass, as well as its potential valorisation into products such as bioplastics or bio-based materials. The overall goal is to develop a scalable, passive, and cost-efficient treatment technology that can support sustainable water management in mining and related sectors.

Expected Results

• A validated pilot-scale algae treatment system for Nordic conditions
• 60% reduction of heavy metals and >50% reduction of suspended solids
• Operational and scientific data supporting industrial integration
• Demonstrated potential for metal recovery from biomass
• New circular resource flows involving bioash, nutrients, water, and bioproducts
• Evidence base for broader deployment and regulatory uptake

Financing and Partners

The work in this project is carried out witing the Impact Innovation program Swedish Metals & Minerals, a joint initiative by the Swedish Energy Agency, Formas, Vinnova and the industry. The project is further supported by CAMM-CRM.
Luleå University of Technology leads the project in collaboration with Umeå University, and Talga.