Biography
Biography: Makhapa Makhafola
Abstract
The mandate of Mintek is set out in the Mineral Technology Act, which is to serve the national interest through Research, Development and Technology Transfer, to promote mineral technology, and to foster the establishment and expansion of industries in the field of minerals and products derived there from. Mintek is a Research and Development (R&D) organisation that specialises in applied research in various scientific and engineering fields and we are publicly (50%) and privately (50%) funded. Mintek provides world class research and development expertise, testwork, and process optimization for the mining industry locally and internationally. The activities range from initial bench-top investigations to full process flow sheet development and the design, construction, commissioning, and optimization of industrial plants The ultimate measure of Mintek’s success is the extent to which R&D activities contribute towards enhancing productivity, economic growth and socio-economic development of South Africa using minerals. This paper present some of Mintek’s biggest achievements which include the commissioning of the rear earth pilot plant, Cynoprobe cyanide analyser, completion of the nanotechnology clean room facilities, dry sorting technology, rehabilitation of derelict and ownerless mines, etc.