Kazakh scientists are creating magnesium raw materials

Kazakhstan is taking a step toward technological independence in strategic sectors: scientists have developed a solution that converts industrial waste into valuable raw materials for the magnesium industry. This opens up new opportunities for reducing import dependence and developing a high-value-added economy, inbusiness.kz reports, citing the Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The development was implemented by specialists from the National Center for Integrated Processing of Mineral Resources in collaboration with a Kostanay enterprise.

"The project is based on a technology for processing chrysotile asbestos waste, which previously had no effective industrial application. During the implementation, a patented pilot plant was commissioned, the implementation of which was confirmed by an official act. The developed technology is aimed at producing products with high added value," explained the Ministry of Industry and Construction of Kazakhstan.

The key result was the production of bischofite (MgCl₂/6H₂O) and high-purity synthetic carnallite (KCl/MgCl₂/6H₂O). According to the ministry, the latter is of strategic importance, as it is used for the electrolytic production of magnesium.

"Currently, this product is purchased abroad for the needs of the Ust-Kamenogorsk Titanium and Magnesium Plant, making this development particularly relevant from an import substitution perspective," the ministry emphasized.

It is noted that the implementation of such technologies allows for the simultaneous resolution of two problems: the disposal of industrial waste and the creation of a domestic raw material base for high-tech industries.

The ministry emphasizes that the development of mineral processing is becoming an important element of Kazakhstan's industrial policy, which is focused on the transition from a raw materials-based model to the production of high-value-added products.

Successful implementation of the technology opens up prospects for the development of a sustainable magnesium industry in the country, reducing dependence on imports and strengthening Kazakhstan's position in the global metals production chain.

Source: inbusiness.kz