PRIM ROCK PROJECT
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Description and objectives
It combines advanced raw-material pre-processing, AI/ML-based process simulations and decision-support systems (including digital twins), process intensification for more efficient calcination and roasting operations, and waste-reduction/valorisation strategies enabled by real-time control. The solutions will be demonstrated in the minerals, cement, and non-ferrous metals sectors, with strong expected impact on resource efficiency and CO₂ reduction.
Project objectives:
- Deploy advanced pre-processing techniques to optimise raw materials according to process needs.
- Develop AI-supported simulations and decision tools and create digital twins for calcination and roasting.
- Design and validate intensified kiln/process technologies with higher efficiency and lower emissions.
- Implement real-time control and post-processing/waste valorisation to minimise waste and improve operational flexibility.
- Support industrial uptake through techno-economic assessment, LCA, and standardisation activities.
Value proposition
- AI-driven digital twins and simulations for smarter, more flexible calcination/roasting.
- Pre-processing plus process intensification to raise efficiency and cut emissions in energy-intensive industries.
- Demonstration in three sectors (minerals, cement, non-ferrous metals) with high replication potential.
- Real-time waste minimisation and re-use to improve circularity and productivity.
- Strong expected impact on resource efficiency and CO₂ reduction.
Project partners
ETHNICON METSOVION POLYTECHNION – NTUA (coordinator), CORE INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY OE, FUNDACIÓ EURECAT, ICCS, CIRCE, INSTITUTO TECNOLÓGICO DE ARAGÓN – ITA, SCCH, BRUNEL UNIVERSITY LONDON, INNCEINNMAT SL, IRIS TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS SL, STAM SRL, ADVANCED MINERALS AND RECYCLING INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS IKE, PRINSUS I.K.E. TECHNOVLASTOS, EUROCORE CONSULTING, MAGGIOLI SPA, CIBOS INNOVATION IKE, FORNACI CALCE GRIGOLIN SPA, HELLAS GOLD S.A., TERNA LEFKOLITHOI S.A., VYTAUTO DIDZIOJO UNIVERSITETAS, UNE, KGHM CUPRUM (R&D Centre).