en.Wedoany.com Reported - Dr. Sonia Cortés, a researcher at the Advanced Mining Technology Center (AMTC) and scholar at the University of Antofagasta, delivered a lecture to 30 students from the Don Bosco Industrial Technical High School in Antofagasta during the World Environment Day commemoration on June 5. The lecture focused on copper recovery using nature-inspired processes such as biomaterials and green solvents.

The lecture aimed to demonstrate how scientific research drives innovation to develop more efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly mining methods. Dr. Cortés highlighted several technologies under study at AMTC to reduce the environmental impact of hydrometallurgical processes, including the use of biological agents, biomaterials, and novel solvents to recover copper from minerals and mining waste.

The technologies she mentioned include Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) and ionic liquids. These compounds are considered more sustainable alternatives to traditional industrial reagents. Dr. Cortés explained that due to their low volatility, lower toxicity, and high metal recovery capacity, these technologies offer new opportunities to reduce hazardous substance consumption and develop production processes aligned with circular economy principles, which are part of AMTC's current research projects.

The lecture also emphasized the potential of biomaterials in promoting environmentally friendly extraction processes, showcasing how scientific research draws inspiration from nature to develop innovative solutions for 21st-century mining challenges. This is part of the work of the AMTC Frontier Hydrometallurgy Research Line, whose multidisciplinary team is dedicated to advancing new technologies that optimize strategic mineral recovery, improve process efficiency, and reduce environmental impact.

In addition to learning about scientific achievements, students engaged in discussions with Dr. Cortés on research, innovation, and challenges facing the mining industry in sustainable development.