Salt mining is an important industry in the north-west of Western Australia. Wind and solar evaporation of salt lake water in special channels leads to precipitation of sodium chloride (salt), which is then treated and harvested, before final processing. The salt product is used as industrial salt and often exported into the Asia-Pacific region. After crystallisation of the salt, a mineral-rich waste brine is produced. Potential recoverable streams include further salt, bromine, chlorine. magnesium salts, potassium salts, sulfate and various trace metals depending on the feedstock lake water.
Aim
The aim of this project is to develop and validate practical processes for circular brine treatment in the salt mining industry. This project will be conducted in collaboration with the salt mining industry and a PhD top-up scholarship and support from industry may be available.
Objectives
Improve salt recovery from salt lake brines.
Develop valorisation pathways for generation of chlorine and bromine from chloride and bromide in the waste brines.
Develop methods for the recovery of magnesium and calcium salts from the waste brines.
Investigate the potential for recovery of high value trace metals, such as lithium, from the waste brines.
Significance
Creating value and reducing waste and environmental impact through selective mineral and salt recovery from salt mining brines is of high significance for the salt mining industry. The key goal is to transform the waste brine from a disposal liability into a series of recoverable resource streams. This would significantly reduce disposal costs, while increasing water security and resource recovery opportunities.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a self-motivated PhD candidate with excellent organisation, problem-solving and project management skills. Ideally a Chemistry Honours graduate with skills in analytical chemistry and organic chemistry and an interest in sustainability and application of chemistry to real-world systems. Strong written and oral English communication skills are essential. Additionally, the applicants should meet the eligibility criteria for entry into a PhD program at Curtin University.
This project is open Domestic applicants only.
Scholarship
If you are identified as the preferred candidate for this project, you may be considered for an RTP scholarship.
Enquires and How to Apply
For enquires about this opportunity contact Professor Cynthia Joll at C.Joll@curtin.edu.au
To formally apply submit an Expression of Interest to Prof Cynthia Joll during the Central Scholarship round (July 1st – July 31st 2026)