A transformative mining biotechnology has emerged from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Enabling Eco-Efficient Beneficiation of Minerals (COEMinerals), led by researchers at the University of Adelaide. The innovation adapts advanced peptide engineering techniques, originally developed for cancer therapeutics and biopharmaceuticals, to selectively target and bind critical minerals such as rare earth elements (REEs), silver, platinum group metals - whether in ores, mine tailings, acid-mine drainage or acid leachates.

These recyclable, highly selective peptides are custom - designed to recognise specific minerals or metals and can be deployed in diverse separations processes. By integrating separation into a single-step workflow, the technology:

• Minimises reagent use and operational complexity

• Achieves over 98% purity and 95% recovery in lab trials [1]

• Reduces environmental waste and energy demand

• Enables simultaneous separation of multiple target elements through multiplexed peptide designs

The system is designed to operate effectively with both mineral particles and dissolved metals, making it suitable for conventional ore processing, tailings reprocessing, remediation of environmentally problematic mine run-offs and purification of metals from acid liquors or leachates from urban mining. Importantly, the platform is scalable and IP-protected. A path for commercialisation has been mapped out - a step forward for sustainable resource extraction and supply chain resilience.

Exclusive Commercialisation

The innovation has been licensed exclusively to Theia Metals Pty. Ltd., which holds global exclusive rights to all mining and mineral processing applications arising from Dr. Zhao’s research and product development at the University of Adelaide.

This agreement positions Theia MetalsTM at the forefront of sustainable mineral recovery technologies, with strategic opportunities across critical mineral supply chains worldwide.

References

1. Yang, G., Liu, Y., Devkota, S.R., Hui, Y., Zhao, R., Li, Y., Weitz, D.A. and Zhao, C.X., 2025. A Sustainable Biotechnology Approach for Mineral Separation. Advanced Functional Materials, p.e04992.