BHP Invent, MIT spinout trial copper and gold recovery technology from waste streams

The article reports a materials recovery breakthrough that could improve copper and gold extraction economics. Massachusetts-based startup SiTration completed a five-week prototype trial with BHP Invent and Copper South Australia, testing its patented silicon-based electrode technology on copper samples and waste streams. The process reportedly recovered bullion-grade gold at 99.99% purity and copper at 99.9% purity from residual waste liquids. If commercialized, the technology could lower processing costs, reduce chemical use, and cut energy and water consumption while enabling miners to recover value from low-grade material currently treated as waste. The news is constructive for copper and gold producers because it points to higher recoveries, better margins, and more efficient processing across the industry.