Study information

Material Processing - 2025 entry

MODULE TITLEMaterial Processing CREDIT VALUE30
MODULE CODECSM2321DA MODULE CONVENERUnknown
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 13
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated) 20
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content

This module provides essential understanding about key processes downstream of ore extraction. The module  introduces you to the main technologies and processes for mineral processing and hydrometallurgy for a range of important metalliferous and industrial mineral deposits. design and monitoring of tailings dams.

The module complements existing knowledge gained from first-year modules about the sustainable extraction of primary resources. Techniques presented in this module may also be applied to beneficiation and management of secondary resources.

AIMS - intentions of the module

The module aims to equip students with skills and knowledge about the responsible processing of primary resources, with due attention for the processing of secondary resources. The module describes the flow of material from a mine through the beneficiation and refining processes to the products and disposal of any waste.

On successful completion of this module you should be familiar with these Knowledge and Skills as specified in the Mine Management Apprenticeship Standard (ST1309):

 

K10 Mineral preparation, processing, and waste management techniques including the use of separation techniques, methods of concentrating and further refining, the handling and transport of bulk solids and the safe, sustainable disposal of mineral waste and tailings.

K19 The principles of mine closure and legacy risk management

K27 Data analysis techniques used to examine complex and interacting issues, to assist in developing appropriate solutions. solving and supporting the decision-making process.

S13 Communicate with colleagues, stakeholders, and other interested particles using a range of different methods and techniques, challenging, influencing, and negotiating where appropriate.

 

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

On successful completion of this module you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge

1. Demonstrate a general understanding of the mining and minerals industry
2. Understand the principle of sampling
3. Visualise underground ore deposits
4. Recognise the fundamental aspects of mineral processing
5. Become familiar with unit processes applied for minerals engineering
6. Design mineral processing flowsheet options for a range of minerals and metals
7. Understand metal recovery through hydrometallurgy, solvent extraction, and electrowinning
8. Appreciate the role of pyrometallurgy
9. Awareness of tailings storage methods
10. Design, conduct, interpret, and report mineral processing testwork

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge

11. Evaluate and apply knowledge to a range of different concepts relating to material processing.
 

Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge

12. Work effectively with others as a member of a group and meet obligations to others
13. Identify strengths and weaknesses in terms of personal study skills

 

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module

The module provides a description of techniques for:

  • reduction of particle size;
  • classification of particles according to size;
  • sorting of particles according to properties other than size;
  • dewatering and thickening of concentrates;
  • hydrometallurgical treatment of particles;
  • solvent extraction and electrowinning of metals;
  • pyrometallurgical treatment of particles;
  • smelting of particles;
  • disposal of tailings.

The module also presents the opportunity to develop mineral processing skills through testwork in the laboratory

LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 69 Guided Independent Study 46 Placement / Study Abroad 0
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled Learning Activity 33 Online Lectures & Webinars
Scheduled Learning Activity 18 Residential 
Scheduled Learning Activity 18 Site based Group Activity
Guided Independent Study 46 Use of online learning materials.  Completion of assessments required to monitor progress.  Consultation with academic staff.

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 50 Written Exams 50 Practical Exams 0
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Exam 50 1.5 hours 1-9, 11, 13 mark)
Laboratory report 50 2000 words 10, 12 Written
         

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
Original Form of Assessment Form of Re-assessment ILOs Re-assessed Time Scale for Re-assessment
Exam  Resubmission 1-9,11,13 Programme schedule dependent
Laboratory report Resubmission 10,12 Programme schedule dependent
       

 

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

All passed components of the module will be rolled forward and will not be reassessed in the event of module failure.

RESOURCES
INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener

Basic reading:

  • B.A. Wills, J. Finch, Wills' Mineral Processing Technology, An Introduction to the Practical Aspects of Ore Treatment and Mineral Recovery, 8th Edition, Elsevier
  • SME Mineral Processing & Extractive Metallurgy Handbook, editors S.K. Kawatra, C. Young, Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration, USA.

 

Reading list for this module:

There are currently no reading list entries found for this module.

CREDIT VALUE 30 ECTS VALUE 15
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES None
CO-REQUISITE MODULES None
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 5 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Friday 19th August 2022 LAST REVISION DATE Friday 19th September 2025
KEY WORDS SEARCH Minerals Processing, Hydrometallurgy, Tailings, Data Analysis

Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.