Heap Leach: A Green Hydrometallurgy Process Alternative For Indonesia Nickel Laterite Ore Conservation And Its Geometallurgy Approach

Abstract

The increasing demand for nickel has driven the rapid expansion of RKEF-based processing for stainless steel production, thereby accelerating the depletion of high-grade saprolite reserves in Indonesia. Currently available nickel processing methods in Indonesia, specifically the smelting process (RKEF/Blast Furnace) and high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL), pose considerable environmental and economic challenges, including high energy intensity, a high carbon footprint, and complex tailings management. Heap leach technology offers a sustainable alternative, particularly for low-grade saprolite ores, which are typically excluded from conventional processing routes such as RKEF or HPAL. Through a geometallurgical approach, critical geological and metallurgical parameters are identified to optimize ore selection for heap leaching, thereby maximizing resource value. Heap leach technology’s low operational risk, low energy intensity, and reduced carbon footprint make it viable under Indonesian conditions, thereby lowering freshwater requirements and producing a stable, non-hazardous residue. This approach not only aligns with Indonesia’s environmental commitments but also provides an avenue for Indonesia to supply “green nickel” that meets global sustainability standards.

Keywords: Nickel Laterites, Heap Leach, Hydrometallurgy, Battery Material, Geometallurgy, Ore Conservation, Sustainable, Green Nicke.