Characterisation of Raw Materials

GTK conducts extensive characterisations of different materials

The analysed materials can consist of primary mineral and ore samples or, for example, sediments, processing waste, metal alloys, tailings, sludge, ash, dust, industrial by-products, or construction materials. GTK produces analytics on the mineral composition of various materials, their raw material potential, the concentration of valuable materials and harmful substances, and the suitability of the materials for different uses.

Research data enables the safe use of geological raw materials.

Research services related to characterisation methods provide information on different materials for a wide range of customer needs

GTK carries out research related to the characterisation of raw materials in accordance with the customer’s needs. The characterisation of raw materials is typically needed in the following sectors and services:

• ore prospecting
• mining industry
• metal processing
• mineral industry
• nuclear waste disposal

GTK’s research services enable the diverse characterisation of primary and secondary materials, which produces data on their raw material potential, concentrations of valuable materials, and possible applications as new products. In addition to these, GTK studies the concentrations of detrimental materials and any other risk factors related to long-term behaviour, such as the structure and phase composition of different materials.

Characterisation of extractive waste promotes the planning of environmental impact management

Characterisation of the environmental properties of extractive waste can be utilised, for example, when planning the management of extractive waste and in processes related to environmental permits. The characterisation process involves short-term geochemical analyses aimed at assessing acid generation, neutralisation potential, and the mobility of harmful elements. Moreover, characterisation includes mineralogical studies for the purpose of identifying the key minerals associated with acid generation and neutralisation potential, and for discovering the sources of the harmful substances.

In addition, GTK provides more detailed studies on the long-term behaviour of waste rock, including long-term field testing and geochemical modelling.

Extractive waste areas, such as waste rock piles, are the main source of harmful seepage waters. It is essential to characterise the different waste rock types and assess their environmental properties and long-term behaviour already at the start of a mining project. This information is crucial for the planning of, for example, waste area structures, water management solutions, and utilisation of extractive waste, which are all key elements in the prevention and mitigation of the potential impacts of poor-quality seepage waters.