Life Cycle of Metals

22nd Jun 2023

You might not think about it but the list of metals you find on the periodic table are fundamental to our everyday lives. But before the metal on your roof or wiring in your computer was ever usable the raw ore had to be mined and processed. Understanding the life cycle of metals helps us know more about how metals are mined, processed, used, and then potentially recycled.

Stage 1 – Mining and Extraction

There are different types of methods of extracting the various ores from the Earth’s crust. Common mining processes, where mineral ore is removed (extracted) from the ground, includes open-pit, and underground. Australian mining companies are required to operate under and comply with various legislative mechanisms to avoid, mitigate, and offset impacts of these practices.

Stage 2 – Processing and Manufacturing

Once the ore has been extracted, the next stage in the life cycle of metals is processing and manufacturing. This is where the metallic element is separated from its raw ore and transformed into usable metal products through a series of processes.

First, the ore is crushed to increase the surface area of the raw material for the next chemical or physical separation process. Techniques like flotation, leaching and smelting are then used to separate the valuable metal from the surrounding rock and eliminate impurities. Flotation involves valuable metals attaching to air bubbles, forming a froth. Leaching involves combining the raw material with a chemical to dissolve the valuable metal into a solvent, which can then be separated through chemical reaction or electrolysis. Smelting involves heating the resultant material to separate the valuable metal based on differences in chemical and physical properties of the metal. The next stage is refining, where the extracted metal is purified to meet industry standards and specific quality requirements. For example, 24-carat gold, which is rare in nature, is mostly obtained through crushing, flotation, smelting and then refining.

Stage 3 – Product Use and Maintenance

There are many uses for metals in our everyday lives. From construction to electronics, and transportation to energy generation, metals play a critical role in modern society. Appropriate use, maintenance, and recycling are all important when it comes to sustainably extending the life of the metals we use.

Stage 4 – End-of-Life Treatment: Repurpose, Reuse and Recycle

To effectively use our metal resources, industries focus on repurposing and reusing metals where they can. Recycling metals from scrap and discarded products is important as it reduces the demand for primary metal extraction.

To promote sustainable use and reduce environmental impacts, it is important to understand the life cycle of mining, extracting, processing, using and then ultimately recycling metals. Metals are needed for the technology of today and the future, so let’s all be aware of the life cycle of metals and the important role we can all play. Learn more about the life cycle of metals in our Minerals Downunder interactive.

Low-Emission Energy Sources – Are they the Future?

17th Apr 2023

What are low-emission energy sources?

Low-emission energy sources are exactly as their name suggests. They’re energy sources that generate lower emissions than their traditional counterparts. This includes the big five: solar, wind, water (hydropower), nuclear, and hydrogen.

In terms of emissions, they’re better for the environment because they release less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Remember — carbon dioxide is one of the main greenhouse gases currently driving global warming.

Of these big five low-emission energy sources, solar, wind, water, and some forms of hydrogen are all also known as ‘renewable resources’. This means that they are utilising and converting energy from a naturally occurring process which cannot be depleted or consumed like fossil fuels (Coal, LNG, Oil etc.).

Let’s dive into a refresher about what each of these low-emission energy sources involves.

Solar power

Solar power converts sunlight into energy either through photovoltaic (PV) panels or through mirrors that concentrate solar radiation and heat up a receiver which generates steam to turn a turbine. This energy can then either be used as electricity or stored in batteries for future use.

Wind power

Wind turbines use the aerodynamic force on propellor blades to turn a generator and create electricity. Fan turbines are currently the most common wind power generator, but there are prototypes being developed that use ‘airborne wind’ and look like giant kites. Traditional turbines are often found on high, open ground but can also be floated on top of the ocean to make use of strong offshore wind.

Hydropower

Humans have used hydropower for thousands of years, making it one of our oldest energy sources. Simply, hydropower uses the movement of water to generate electricity. As water flows or is pumped through a turbine, it converts that movement into power. Hydroelectricity can be generated almost immediately, meaning it can help support other power sources in low production times, especially when power generation requires damming a water reservoir. Much like wind power, some hydroelectric farms are being researched in the ocean, where the motion of waves or tidal currents is converted to electricity.

Nuclear power

Fission Reactor:
At the heart of nuclear power is the nuclear reactor. The reactor uses the natural radioactive decay uranium as fuel to produce heat through a process called fission. This heat is then used to generate steam which spins a turbine and produces electricity.

Fusion Power – Research and Development:
Both fission and fusion are nuclear processes, whereby the nucleus of an atom is changed due to nuclear forces. Fusion reactors produce the inert gas helium (chemically inactive), whilst also producing and consuming hydrogen isotopes like tritium and deuterium inside a closed circuit. This process generates electricity by using heat from the nuclear power reaction. Due to technology-readiness and scalability constraints, electricity generation and utilisation of fusion power is currently expected to ramp up in the second half of the century, contingent on funding and technical advancement.

Hydrogen power

As you know, hydrogen is the most common element in the universe. There are several ways it can be utilised to produce electricity or mechanical energy. There are a variety of methods used to extract hydrogen including through electrolysis and steam methane reforming. Once it’s extracted, it can be stored as a liquid, a gas, or an additive in other materials. Because of its diversity, it has potential to be stored for later use or exported overseas.

What do these energy sources mean for Australia’s energy future?

The energy sector accounts for a significant amount of the world’s emissions, making it one of the primary drivers of climate change. Because of this, renewable and low-emission energy sources have a role to play in meeting global climate change goals. It’s expected that these energy sources will take on a larger role over the next few years.

With this increased focus on low-emission sources comes important considerations around maintaining reliability, scale, and affordability.

The two biggest renewable sources, solar and wind, aren’t always ‘running’ – the sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always blow. To overcome this, great strides have taken place to improve the batteries needed to store solar and wind power. However, it’s highly likely we’ll always need to combine these sources with other generation methods to ensure there is sufficient and reliable electricity.

The low-emissions power industry has experienced a lot of growth, but there’s still considerable room for more. To help start your classroom discussion, ask this question — what do you think Australia’s energy production will look like by 2050? You can also follow this up with a project for a more in-depth look at low-emission energy.

Australian Curriculum content statements

AC9S8U05

AC9S9U05

AC9S7H01

AC9S8H01

AC9S7H03

AC9S8H03

AC9HG10K01

Oresome City

Open up a city and see how our everyday lives are powered by resources! Source raw materials, explore Australia’s resource sector and see where resources come from in this exciting interactive. Remember – if it’s not grown, it’s mined!

Minerals Down Under

Another interactive that allows students to expand their knowledge of Australia’s rich mineral deposits. Made up of seven sections, this resource covers mineral formation, mineral exploration, different types of mining, the extraction of minerals from ore, and the processes involved in transforming minerals into everyday products. 

Hydrogen Facts

A fact sheet providing information on hydrogen production from fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, this resource is a great way to understand how hydrogen is made, and its role in a sustainable future. 

Mining Makes Your Smart Home

From an overarching city to your own home, this interactive provides a ‘behind the scenes’ look at the natural resources that can be found at home. Click different items in the home and see what they are fueled by.

Discover a diverse range of careers waiting for you in Australia’s minerals and energy sector with our careers interactives and resources. Whether you’re passionate about STEM or teaching students in the field, there is something for everyone.

The Sky’s the Limit With Minerals and Energy Careers of the Future

31st Oct 2022

Minerals and energy fuel our world – literally! From engineering to geology, careers in this industry are shaping the future of our lives. That’s why the minerals and energy sector needs enthusiastic young men and women with a passion for problem-solving and innovative technology to fill the workforce.

A career in this field could be an exciting prospect for the right person and will provide a chance to explore the world and shape the future of the planet in how resources are extracted, processed, and used.

Some of the career paths include:

Metallurgist

Interesting title, interesting role! Metallurgists are mineral experts, researching and developing the processes used to extract minerals from ore and refine them into something useful for commercial purposes. They study and apply various methods for separating and extracting minerals, improve the processes to do this work, prepare technical reports, and develop and control ways to store and treat waste materials.

Environmental Engineer

This role has lots of variety and opportunities, involved in many tasks in the resources field. Some of their responsibilities include developing ways to minimise harm to the environment, undertaking lab work to analyse pollutants, monitoring and evaluating how engineering projects impact the world, and rehabilitating land, water, and air that has been affected by such projects.

Automation Engineer

Technology is a huge part of engineering projects today and having someone who can help with implementation and safety is crucial. Automation engineers are responsible for this, along with developing mining automation, telecommunications, and operations management systems on site, with oversight of these systems’ integrity. They may even get to don a VR headset once in a while!

Auto Electrician

Automotive electricians also play an important role in minerals and energy as vehicles become increasingly electrified.. They install new electrical systems and parts, and repair and maintain electrical wiring and components in mobile mining equipment and other vehicles. This can cover a wide range of fields and worksites.

Geologist

For the rock lovers! Geologists are all about studying minerals and materials to find out more about the nature, composition, and structure that makes them up. In turn, they get to advise on how to extract them while making sure to responsibly care for the earth at the same time..

Mining Engineer

In the thick of it are mining engineers, planning and directing the engineering of mineral extraction. They investigate mineral deposits, work closely with geologists, determine the best way to mine minerals, and work towards improving efficiency and safety in mines, to name just a few of their responsibilities.

Other job options in the minerals and energy field include mechanical engineers, heavy diesel fitters, facility engineers and operations technicians. Check out our Oresome Careers interactive to see more real-world examples of roles in the minerals and energy industry.

What’s the Big Deal About Hydrogen?

20th Sep 2022

We use energy for so many things – from the bus ride to school or work to cooking popcorn in the microwave, we use energy every day, all the time. In Australia, we predominantly use traditional sources of energy but are increasingly looking to more sustainable sources to add into the energy mix.

Enter hydrogen!

Power generation in Australia today largely uses thermal coal and gas, along with renewable resources like wind and solar. Sometimes, renewable energy sources are not able to meet the electricity demand when and where it is required. Hydrogen has the potential to solve this problem.

Hydrogen comes in a range of different colour classifications but in Australia three are used: grey, blue, and green.

Grey – produced through steam methane reforming. This involves a two-step process that combines steam and natural gas to produce hydrogen. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is produced in this process.

Blue – similar to grey hydrogen, is made from natural gas using steam methane reforming but instead of releasing the carbon dioxide produced, some of it is captured and stored. It is not possible to capture all the carbon dioxide produced but the carbon footprint is lowered.

Green – the most sustainable form of hydrogen production is the electrolysis of water. Renewable electricity is used to power an electrolyser. This splits water into hydrogen and oxygen gas. Hydrogen produced this way is classified as green hydrogen as no CO2 emissions are produced, leaving only oxygen behind.

Australia’s resources industry is working hard to make energy production more sustainable and hydrogen is just one way they are doing it.

Learn more about hydrogen in the video below, or take a look at all of our hydrogen resources.

How Interactives Help Engage Students

12th Sep 2022

It’s pretty common knowledge that humans learn best by getting hands on, rather than through abstract ideas and theories alone. With growing technology, the classroom is seeing a revolution in how students can learn and interactive elements are becoming the norm.

Gamification

With technology evolving at a rapid pace, the classroom is more sophisticated than ever before. Gamification has been heralded as a great way to engage and teach for many years but today’s technology makes it easier than ever before. Gamification doesn’t mean it must be a “game” but rather making learning more fun through game-like mechanics, such as challenges, goals and rewards, storytelling, and visuals. Interactives are one way to “gamify” learning.

Learning by doing

Interactives are just that: interactive. This means, rather than just reading and writing, students learn by engaging with the subject matter. Whether this be looking at a fictional city and seeing how different jobs help it run smoothly, or a virtual home, where students can see how hundreds of things are powered by different kinds of energy, interactive learning allows students to get hands-on knowledge, which in turn can help with making the subject matter more interesting and easier to understand.

Engaging through fun

We all love to have fun and making learning fun creates more engaged students. Along the same lines as gamifying learning, interactive materials can make topics that may not be as engaging usually, more interesting for students to consume.

If you aren’t using interactives in your classroom or home, what are you waiting for? We have lots of fun interactive teaching resources and learning tools around mining, minerals, energy, and much more – check them out today.

Different Engineering Jobs Your Students Could Do in the Future

16th Jun 2022

Engineering is a hugely popular career path, not only for the diverse specialisations and industries but also for the many opportunities for career growth across the country and around the world. Engineering is all around us, and there are lots of options for budding engineers. Check out some of the most common engineering jobs below:

Civil Engineer

A career in civil engineering covers many areas and industries, from renewable energy to mining and everything in between. Civil engineers plan, design, construct, operate and maintain roads, bridges, dams, water supply schemes, sewerage systems, transportation, harbours, canals, dockyards, airports, railways, factories and large buildings – it’s a long list! For those who enjoy maths and problem solving on a large scale, this could be the ideal pathway

Mechanical Engineer

It’s kind of in the name, but mechanical engineers deal with all things mechanical! They plan, design and oversee the development, installation, operation and maintenance of machinery. For those with an interest in gears, motors, and moving parts, or upgrading items through modifications, mechanical engineering could be a great option.

Mining Engineer

Mining is one of the biggest industries in Australia, with lots of opportunity wherever you live in Australia or around the world! Planning and directing the extraction of mineral resources from the earth, the role entails finding the best way to extract resources from the earth that are used in nearly everything we use from the smallest mobile device to the largest structure. For those who love maths, problem solving, and working in teams this could be a great opportunity.

Geotechnical Engineer

Often working in the same field as mining engineering but more specialised, geotechnical engineering involves ensuring geotechnical activities are conducted safely to create a safe working environment for employees and contractors, ensuring company standards are maintained and government legislation is strictly adhered to. The role uses a wide range of skills, in both the engineering and earth sciences, fields. A knack for problem solving and mathematics is a good start for this pathway.,

Chemical Engineer

After sourcing minerals and raw materials, the next step is turning them into something usable, and this is where a chemical engineer comes in. They design and coordinate the construction and operation of manufacturing facilities and processes to create everyday products like petrol, plastics, and even toothpaste! For those who like chemistry enjoy practical and creative tasks, and problem solving this is an ideal career pathway. .

Getting lots of questions about a career in engineering? The options are endless! Have a look at our Careers interactive to see the industries connected to different engineering roles, as well as real people working in the roles across Australia.

Pointing the way. Using new indicator minerals in the nickel hunt

26th Jul 2021

Finding the next Kambalda, home of Australia’s sulfide nickel mining industry, will be a lot harder than the original discovery, but to aid the process a new indicator mineral exploration technique is emerging from CSIRO research.

Read the full article here.

Preparing the face of future mining

11th Jun 2021

Deloitte’s top 10 trends for 2021 have highlighted the mining sector’s commitment to continual improvement and in laying a foundation for tomorrow. Decarbonisation and zero harm are two of this year’s discussion points in the annual Tracking the Trends report.

Decarbonisation is established as a hot topic in the mining sector, but the trend is set to culminate in a greater way over the next two to three years.

Deloitte Australia’s mining and metals leader Ian Sanders believes the sector is at an inflection point, where the image of mining has significantly improved over 2020 and is set to continue to be a real focus.

Read the full article here.

A bright future for Australian energy, technology and expertise

12th May 2021

In the second of a series of opinion pieces from Science meets Parliament sponsors, Professor Paul Mulvaney, Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science, discusses how to extend Australia’s renewable energy generation capability, create jobs and deliver better results for businesses and energy consumers.

‘Our land abounds with nature’s gifts, of beauty rich and rare’. As we progress further into an exciting but uncertain 21^st century, those words ring more truly now than ever before.’

Read the full article here.