WA Branch Chemaraderie – June 23rd 2026
Critical Metals, Battery Recycling, and Australia’s Opportunity
Prof. Aleksandar Nikoloski
Extractive Metallurgy Hub, Harry Buttler Institute (Centre for Water Energy and Waste), Murdoch University
a.nikoloski@murdoch.edu.au
Abstract
This seminar will explore how global demand for life-enhancing technologies is driving the demand for critical metals and new developments in materials and manufacturing. As hi-tech devices, renewable energy, and efficient clean energy storage become increasingly important, the need for larger quantities and a wider variety of metals and metal compounds as the key ingredients in the building blocks of those devices is rising and impacting every stage of the supply chain. Attendees will learn about sources of such essential metals, including both traditional mining and the recycling of used goods, such as electronic waste including lithium-ion batteries, as well as key processing techniques for producing chemicals needed in electric vehicles, batteries, and mobile devices. The session will examine established and emerging strategies to improve recovery from complex materials, lower costs, and lessen environmental impacts. Examples of research aimed at reducing energy consumption, limiting waste, and generating valuable by-products will also be covered. The seminar will conclude with an emphasis on building a sustainable society based on circular economy principles, skill development, and international collaboration for a sustainable metals industry, highlighting projects from Murdoch University’s Extractive Metallurgy Hub. Both community members and academics are invited to participate and share their perspectives in these vital discussions.
Speak Bio
Professor Aleks Nikoloski heads the Extractive Metallurgy Hub at Murdoch University and leads Research Program 2: Critical Metals Refining and Production within the Critical Metals for Critical Industries CRC. With a PhD in Metallurgical Engineering, he brings over 29 years of teaching, research, and practical experience, focusing on applied electrochemistry and hydrometallurgical processes. In 2023, he received the Vice Chancellor's Excellence in Research Distinguished and Sustained Achievement Award. Professor Nikoloski is known for groundbreaking work on processing minerals such as lithium, vanadium, uranium, rare earths, and base metals. His approach bridges fundamental science with real-world applications, like energy storage and sustainable technologies. He has published more than 100 influential journal articles, secured three patents, and made significant contributions to industry and government reporting. Internationally recognised, his research group has helped establish Murdoch University as a leader in hydrometallurgical innovation in Australia. Through close collaboration with industry partners, he has advanced resource recovery and recycling, solidifying his reputation as a pioneer in sustainable mineral processing.
Evening details
Date: Tuesday 23rd June
Time: 6.00 pm Refreshments and registration (note the later than usual start)
6.30 pm Presentation
To be followed by more networking, and Pizza
Venue: ChemCentre, Exhibition Space, Building 500, Curtin University.
Cost: Free - Please register for catering purposes.
