PG2CRM meeting in Morocco

Phosphogypsum is a by-product of the phosphate fertilizer industry and is considered an environmental challenge due to its high radioactivity and large quantities generated. However, our project called PG2CRM aims to turn this waste into a valuable resource by extracting critical raw materials.

The next meeting of this exciting project was held from the 2nd to the 5th of May 2023 at the UM6P in Benguerir, Morocco.

The first day of the meeting was reserved for the arrival and installation of the participants from all over the partner countries. The following day, the participants were welcomed with coffee and then introduced to the UM6P and Chemical & Biochemical Sciences Department of Institute of Science, Technology and Innovation by Redouane BENIAZZA. The project progress of PG2CRM was presented by Essaid BILAL and Nils HANEKLAUS. The progress of the Work Packages WP1 and WP2 was also presented by Katarzyna KIEGIEL and Hajar BELLEFQIH, respectively. Furthermore, WP5 was presented by Hynek ROUBÍK.

After the presentations, the participants enjoyed a delicious lunch before embarking on a visit to the various laboratories of UM6P. The day ended with a dinner, where participants had the opportunity to network and discuss the project progress.

On the third day, the participants departed for Jerf Alasfer to visit the phosphoric acid and phosphogypsum production unit. The visit was an excellent opportunity to observe the industrial processes in action and gain insights into the challenges and opportunities of extracting critical raw materials from phosphogypsum.

After lunch, the participants discussed the next meetings, perspectives, and projects related to the PG2CRM project. The day ended with a dinner, where participants had the opportunity to reflect on the visit and the day's discussions.

On the fourth day, the participants departed according to their flight schedules. The meeting was a great success, and the project's progress and future prospects look promising. The PG2CRM project is an excellent example of how science and innovation can address environmental challenges and turn waste into valuable resources.

More information ca be found here.