pH7 Technologies Gets C$5M for On-Site Copper Cathode Production
pH7 Technologies secures up to C$5 million from Natural Resources Canada to evaluate a closed-loop process that converts low-grade copper sulfide ore into 99.9% pure copper cathodes on-site, with green hydrogen as a by-product.
pH7 Technologies, a Vancouver-based critical metals processing company, has secured up to C$5 million in funding from Natural Resources Canada through the Energy Innovation Program's Mining Decarbonization Demonstration Call for Proposals. The funding will support the evaluation of a first-of-its-kind copper production technology using samples from Trekor Metals' Gibraltar Mine in British Columbia.
The project aims to validate pH7's proprietary closed-loop copper extraction process, which converts low-grade sulfide ore directly into 99.9% pure copper cathodes on-site. A notable by-product of this process is green hydrogen, which could provide an additional revenue stream or be used to power the operation. If successful, this technology could reduce the environmental footprint of copper mining by eliminating the need for smelting and reducing transportation costs. For traders, this innovation may influence long-term copper supply dynamics, as it unlocks previously uneconomical low-grade ore deposits. For current pricing context, check NowPrice's commodities page.
Looking ahead, the demonstration phase will provide critical data on the process's scalability and economic viability. Success could pave the way for broader adoption across the mining industry, potentially reshaping copper supply chains. Market participants will monitor the project's progress for signs of commercial readiness, which could impact copper price expectations over the medium term.