RST Solutions, a leading fine particle specialist, has unveiled a groundbreaking water clarifying technology that could fundamentally alter water management practices in the mining sector. Flockit Blocks, an advanced flocculant technology, has demonstrated remarkable potential in pre-launch trials at an Indonesian mine, showcasing its ability to separate silt from water and produce clean water for immediate reuse. This innovation is not just a technological leap; it’s a paradigm shift in how the mining industry approaches water management.
The trials, conducted side by side with a control drain, revealed a stark contrast. The drain treated with Flockit Blocks rapidly aggregated fine particles, reducing water turbidity and producing clean water in a short amount of time. In contrast, the untreated control drain showed no change from its natural rock filter. The treated water from the Flockit Blocks drain contained significantly reduced sediment levels, with clarity improving greatly over the course of the water flow. Initial results concluded that the treated sample had less than 50 ppm sediment, which meets legal discharge limits. Remarkably, one 5 kg Flockit Block is capable of treating up to 350,000 litres of water, subject to site conditions.
David Handel, RST Solutions Operations and Technical Director, emphasised the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of Flockit Blocks. “It’s a cost-effective alternative to traditional liquid dosing systems,” Handel said. “Flockit Blocks is a more efficient means of separating sediment from water to improve water recycling practices on a mine site, or any industrial operation that uses excess water.” The technology’s self-dosing nature ensures ease of application, requiring minimal maintenance and monitoring, while delivering consistently clear water results.
The implications of this technology are vast. Mining operations often face significant challenges in managing water, from regulatory compliance to operational efficiency. Flockit Blocks addresses these challenges head-on, offering a scalable solution that can be adapted to both large-scale mining operations and smaller projects. The technology’s ability to minimise freshwater consumption and reduce environmental impact aligns with the growing global push for sustainable mining practices.
The successful trials at the Indonesian mine are a testament to Flockit Blocks’ real-world effectiveness. RST Solutions is now preparing for a market launch, with plans to introduce the technology to mining operations across Australia, Indonesia, and other regions facing similar water management challenges. This launch could mark a turning point in the mining industry’s approach to water management, driving a shift towards more sustainable and efficient practices.
The introduction of Flockit Blocks challenges the status quo, prompting mining companies to reconsider their water management strategies. As environmental regulations tighten and the demand for sustainable practices grows, technologies like Flockit Blocks could become indispensable. They offer a pathway to meet regulatory requirements while enhancing operational efficiency, a win-win for both the industry and the environment.
The mining sector is ripe for disruption, and Flockit Blocks is poised to be a key player in this transformation. By addressing one of the industry’s most pressing challenges, this innovative technology could reshape water management practices, setting a new standard for sustainability and efficiency. As RST Solutions prepares for the market launch, the mining industry watches with anticipation, ready to embrace a future where clean water is not a luxury, but a standard.
