Startup Revolutionizes Copper Production with Breakthrough Water-Based Purification Process

Still Bright, a startup focused on reducing the environmental impact of copper production, has developed a water-based reaction process that utilizes battery chemistry technology to purify copper. This method is expected to be less polluting than traditional smelting, a crucial step in refining ore into a pure metal. The company's founders aim to address the growing strain on the copper supply chain, which is expected to face significant demand increases in the coming years. According to Randy Allen, Still Bright's cofounder and CEO, the startup is "really focused on addressing the copper supply crisis that's looming ahead of us." Copper is a vital component in various products, including electrical wiring, cookware, and clean energy technologies like solar panels and electric vehicles. Global copper demand is forecasted to grow by 40% between now and 2040, driven by the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources and electric vehicles. The traditional smelting process, which involves heating copper ore to high temperatures, has significant environmental implications, including air and water pollution. Still Bright's water-based reaction process, on the other hand, utilizes a more environmentally friendly approach to extract copper from ore. The company's technology has the potential to reduce the environmental impact of copper production and alleviate concerns about the geographic concentration of the copper supply chain. Copper is mined worldwide, with many mines historically having on-site smelters to refine the ore. However, this has led to concerns about the concentration of the supply chain and the potential risks associated with it. Still Bright's innovative approach aims to mitigate these risks and provide a more sustainable solution for copper production. Still Bright's technology has been in development for several years, and the company is now poised to bring its innovative process to market. According to Allen, the startup is working with industry partners to scale up production and make its technology more widely available. While the company's exact timeline for commercialization is unclear, Still Bright's efforts are expected to have a significant impact on the copper industry in the coming years. Industry experts have welcomed Still Bright's innovative approach, recognizing the potential benefits of a more sustainable and environmentally friendly copper production process. As the demand for copper continues to grow, companies like Still Bright are working to address the environmental implications of traditional smelting and provide a more sustainable solution for the industry.