Representatives of D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University, together with specialists from JSC “NAC Kazatomprom” and JSC “Ulbinsky Metallurgical Plant,” have concluded a working visit to Belgium. As a result of the trip, agreements were reached on preparing feasibility studies for joint initiatives, developing scientific research, and exchanging technologies in the field of critical metals processing.
The Kazakh delegation held negotiations with companies Hydrometal S.A. and Campine NV. Founded in 1985, Hydrometal S.A. specializes in processing complex materials containing non-ferrous, rare, and precious metals, including secondary raw materials from batteries, electronics, and catalysts.
Campine NV is one of Europe’s leading companies in secondary non-ferrous metals processing and specialized chemical product manufacturing. The company’s history spans over 100 years: it was established in 1912 under the name Compagnie Métallurgique de la Campine.
During the meetings, the parties discussed opportunities for processing Kazakh raw materials, implementing pilot projects, and adapting modern technological solutions to the conditions of domestic enterprises. Particular attention was paid to improving resource efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of production.
As part of the visit, Kazakh specialists participated in the Second International Symposium on Circular Hydrometallurgy ICHS 2026, held on September 2–4, 2026, at the LAMOT Congress & Heritage Centre in Mechelen. The forum was organized by SOLVOMET with the support of the European Research Council (ERC) and several projects from the Horizon Europe program.
The symposium brought together more than 200 representatives of research centers and industrial companies from Europe, Asia, and North America. Among the Horizon Europe projects supporting the forum is TiBeRIUM, in which EKTU participates.
At the international platform, new technologies for processing rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt, and other critical metals were presented. Participants examined practical approaches to implementing circular hydrometallurgy principles, including reagent regeneration and reuse, reducing water and energy consumption, and minimizing industrial waste.
EKTU representatives also held a meeting with scientists from KU Leuven. The parties discussed prospects for developing the Rare Earth Elements Center being created at the university, implementing joint research projects, and training specialists for high-tech industries.
The work aligns with the priorities of the Concept for the Development of Higher Education and Science in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2023–2029, which provides for the development of applied research, international scientific cooperation, and interaction between universities and the real sector of the economy.
Cooperation between EKTU, Kazatomprom, and the Ulbinsky Metallurgical Plant makes it possible to combine the university’s scientific potential with the specific challenges of production. The agreements reached create a foundation for technology transfer, deep processing of mineral raw materials in Kazakhstan, and training specialists for high-tech industry.
