Egypt Investigates Local Tech for Phosphoric Acid and Desalination

Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, visited the Nuclear Research Centre in Anshas to review new projects focused on domestic raw material processing and water treatment technologies. The initiatives aim to integrate scientific research with industrial manufacturing to increase economic returns from the country’s natural resources.

Advancing Industrial Research

During his visit to the Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Esmat examined a project designed to extract phosphorus pentoxide from phosphate mining waste. The proposed method involves separating silica and heavy elements from waste material, which currently holds concentrations between 10% and 21%. The end goal is to produce purified phosphoric acid suitable for food, agricultural, and industrial use.

The minister also reviewed research into the use of glauconite, a mineral abundant in potassium and magnesium, and the production of ferrosilicon for metal manufacturing. According to the ministry, these efforts are part of a broader strategy to localize advanced technologies and reduce reliance on imports.

Water Treatment and Future Applications

The research team presented a locally developed technology for seawater desalination, which officials stated could lower the costs associated with treating saline water. Esmat also observed laboratory experiments involving the use of locally sourced natural materials for water purification.

The minister confirmed that the ministry intends to support the transition of these laboratory findings into commercial applications. He noted that the Atomic Energy Authority has developed expertise in diverse fields, including medical sciences, land reclamation, and crop productivity improvements.

Why it matters: These projects represent an effort to industrialize domestic raw materials and address critical resource needs in Egypt. By developing local technologies for desalination and chemical processing, the government seeks to lower operational costs in key sectors and enhance self-sufficiency in agricultural and industrial production.