e2v and Rio Tinto have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop large-scale microwave and radio frequency generators for mineral recovery.
The aim in this case is to improve copper extraction efficiency from previously discarded ore.
"The machinery will set a new world standard in mineral recovery," said e2v. "The partnership will enable Rio Tinto to scale up its mineral recovery platforms, such as 'Copper NuWave', which is expected to be trialled later this year at Kennecott Utah Copper in the United States."
e2v brands its high-power microwave and RF sources 'ProWave'.
It recently delivered a ProWave heating system to a commercial trial at UK exfoliated vermiculite producer Silvaperl, which is already supplying customers from the machine.
"The trial has identified system requirements and modifications required to process worldwide sources of vermiculite, which will be completed within six months," said e2v.
