Ministry of Higher Education (Havana, Republic of Cuba):

Breff Alberto Turro, Head of the Innovation Development Sector, Candidate of Engineering Sciences
Karell Fure Barbara Elena, Adviser on International Relations, Candidate of Philological Sciences, Professor

St. Petersburg Mining University (Saint Petersburg, Russia):
Nikolaev A. K., Professor, Doctor of Engineering Sciences, Professor
Bazhin V. Yu., Head of Chair, Doctor of Engineering Sciences, Professor, bazhin_vyu@pers.spmi.ru

This article analyzes the existing and promising laterite deposits in the Republic of Cuba containing large amounts of nickel and cobalt in the form of oxide complexes. The paper provides an overview of the existing Cuban enterprises and describes specific features of the current concentration and processing projects targeting ores and technogenic waste. Problems are discussed associated with the introduction of the most efficient processing methods, such as flotation, along with various technologies for obtaining nickel and cobalt concentrates. Operation of the existing production facilities of the Republic of Cuba is analyzed, specific recommendations are given by the Russian specialists, current information is provided on the new projects to develop the nickel industry. Feasible methods of associated recovery of platinum group elements and lanthanides from ores and sludge wastes are considered. The analysis of production data has revealed that preliminary concentration with subsequent flotation is the most expedient processing method that reduces the production costs to a competitive level and does not require any major reconstruction of the metallurgical shops. The relevance of joint Cuban-Russian research is substantiated, aimed at the development of a resource-saving technology for the recovery of nickel and cobalt from laterites that could be used to manufacture commercial electrorefining products and to solve the related environmental problems. The issues of personnel training in mining and metallurgy for the Republic of Cuba are also covered.

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