Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI), a defence public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Heavy Water Board (HWB) and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to develop processes for recovering nickel and cobalt from plant reverts. The agreement brings together MIDHANI’s industrial capabilities and the technological expertise of the two Department of Atomic Energy organisations. Through this collaboration, the partners aim to develop efficient and sustainable metal recovery processes that improve resource utilisation and promote recycling.
Developing Sustainable Metal Recovery Technologies
The collaboration will focus on recovering valuable metals from manufacturing residues, thereby reducing waste and improving the utilisation of secondary resources. The initiative aims to reduce dependence on primary mineral resources and strengthen domestic supply chains for critical metals. By developing effective recovery technologies, the three organisations seek to support sustainable manufacturing and advance circular-economy practices in India.
Strengthening the Supply of Critical Metals
Nickel and cobalt are essential raw materials for several strategic and industrial applications, including advanced batteries, electric vehicles, stainless steel and superalloys. Recovering these metals from plant reverts could unlock additional value from manufacturing residues while improving the availability of important industrial materials. Consequently, the initiative could contribute to India’s efforts to strengthen domestic resource security and support growing demand from industrial and clean-energy sectors.
MIDHANI Highlights Commercial Potential
V. S. Narayana Murty, Chairman and Managing Director of MIDHANI, said the collaboration marked an important milestone in the company’s efforts to recover critical metals from secondary resources. He added that the three organisations would work together to develop viable, sustainable and commercially competitive solutions for nickel and cobalt recovery. As reported by psuwatch.com, through this partnership, MIDHANI, HWB and BARC aim to advance metal recovery technologies, improve resource efficiency and support the sustainable use of critical materials in India’s strategic manufacturing sector.
