Photocatalyst Innovation for Sustainable Mining Waste Treatment
- Jun 8
- 1 min read
In commemoration of Earth Day 2026, BRIN, through its Research Center for Geological Resources (PRSDG), is developing photocatalyst technology as an environmentally friendly solution for mining waste treatment. This research focuses on utilizing marginal geological resources, such as by-products of laterite nickel ore and industrial waste like fly ash and bottom ash (FABA), transforming them into high-value materials. This approach not only aims to reduce environmental burdens caused by mining waste but also enhances economic value through a circular economy concept.
One of the key outcomes of this research is the development of TiO₂- and Fe₂O₃-based photocatalysts, which are effective in degrading hazardous pollutants such as industrial dyes (e.g., methylene blue) and also possess antibacterial properties against pathogens like E. coli. In addition, material doping techniques have been developed to improve the efficiency of the photocatalytic process. The downstream applications of this research also include the production of slow-release fertilizers, zeolite synthesis that converts FABA into industrial filtration materials, as well as advanced materials such as quantum dots and smart coatings. This innovation demonstrates that sustainable resource management can go hand in hand with modern industrial development.
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