AMARANTA: Green Hydrogen from Mine Drainage.

The massive annual discharge of Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) in the Huelva mining district (affecting the Tinto-Odiel basin and Doñana Natural Space) represents a critical environmental liability. Simultaneously, there is an urgent need to deploy low-cost, decentralized green hydrogen production methods.

AMARANTA proposes a novel, modular, and energy-efficient closed-loop electrochemical process that addresses both challenges simultaneously. The core technology involves:

1. Selective Metal Recovery: Initial electrochemical separation and precipitation of heavy metals from the AMD.

2. Water Remediation & H₂ Generation: Subsequent electrolysis of the highly acidic water. This not only neutralizes the effluent but, most importantly, generates Green Hydrogen (H₂) at the cathode and regenerates sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) at the anode.

The project is currently based on laboratory trials (TRL 3-4). The primary objective is to advance through TRL 5-7 by designing, building, and demonstrating a modular Pilot Plant capable of processing actual AMD volumes in a relevant operational environment.

Expected Impact:

• Sustainable Energy: Establishes a new, circular pathway for H₂ production, diversifying renewable energy sources.

• Resource Efficiency: Recovers valuable metals (e.g., copper, zinc) and regenerates a high-purity industrial reagent (H₂SO₄), supporting resource independence.

• Decarbonisation: Offers a decentralized system scalable for remote industrial and environmental sites.

We seek partners with expertise in electrolysis cell design and durability in harsh environments, hydrogen storage and safety protocols, and industrial system integration for the pilot phase.