VALCUNIC project aims to develop a new method of cupronickel scrap separation as well as the research and development of a new synthesis path to obtain nanometric copper oxide from the copper recuperated by the hydrometallurgic new method developed. It is important to note that in this process, recoverable nickel salts will be obtained.

Technological innovations will be presented mainly in the separation process. The aim is to develop a new method of hydrometallurgical separation of copper and nickel that replaces the current pyrometallurgical processes of revaluation and recycling and also allows the synthesis of copper oxide (I) (copper oxide) from copper obtained from cupronickel scrap.

The main technological challenges of this project are to develop a new method of effective separation of the two elements, which is industrially viable, easily scalable and allows to obtain products with high added value with the appropriate technical characteristics for the end consumer.

Alfametal, will carry out the technical tasks related to:

• the characterization of the scrap
• the characterization of the raw material
• the studies of scalability and industrial viability.

DIOPMA will carry out the technical tasks related to:

• the development and optimization of a new method for separating metal elements
• obtaining high value-added nanometric oxides.