Metals and Minerals Network (MinMetNet)

The aim is to create and consolidate a network for the Metals and Mineral industrial sector in collaboration with academe, government laboratories and research organisations in order to develop and access new research findings and respond jointly to new opportunities in the areas relating to sustainable development, clean technology, zero wastes & emissions, beneficial reuse of waste products, bio- and advanced materials processing, nano-technology and modelling relevant to the network. There is a strong need felt within the sector to act co-operatively in order to identify, develop and transfer technology from within the network as well as from other sectors. The main objectives include:

1. Provide an interactive forum for representatives of Metals and Minerals sector.

2. Exchange new ideas, highlight opportunities relating to technology, research and industrial development through meetings, seminars, newsletters and electronic media.

3. Organise agreed programmes of feasibility studies and literature surveys for the joint benefit of the members.

4. Secondment and wok placement for academic staff and students in the industry.

5. Use of the network as a launching pad for developing research programmes within the network.

The forum is well represented by members from across the sector covering the following areas: ferrous, non-ferrous & precious metals, minerals (including the energy sector), waste processing & pollution control, cements & concrete, glass and advanced processing. The network will address new and challenging research problems and findings through skilled academic experts, expert advice & specialist facilities from universities and research centres and through work placements and industrial secondments.

The project is funded by the EPSRC in association with Cambridge University. It is envisaged that the network will achieve self-sufficiency within 3 years.