The Metals Company (TMC) says it has produced the world’s first cobalt sulphate from seafloor polymetallic nodules.
Nasdaq-listed TMC said this week hydrometallurgical flowsheet bench-scale testing at a facility in Lakefield, Ontario, generated the cobalt sulphate. It follows the production of nickel sulphate from test samples in April this year.
“This achievement further demonstrates the potential for seafloor polymetallic nodules as a valuable resource,” said TMC head of onshore development, Dr Jeffrey Donald.
“Production of the world’s first cobalt sulphate from deep-seafloor nodules is another important milestone for TMC and for creating a responsible supply of metals required for human flourishing.
“SGS continues to execute at a high level and this milestone demonstrates the viability of our process and our dedication to near-zero solid waste nodule processing.”
TMC is testing its hydrometallurgical flowsheet design at SGS Canada’s Metallurgical Centre of Excellence.
