French Startup Uses Plants to Mine Nickel for Electric Cars by 2030
French startup Genomines is revolutionising metal extraction using genetically modified plants. The company aims to produce 150,000 tons of bio-nickel by 2030, enough to power up to three million electric cars.
Genomines' phytomining process involves using bioleaching and heating to extract metals from harvested plants. The company has developed genetically modified daisies and sunflowers, known as hyperaccumulators, that can store up to 7.6 percent of their biomass as nickel. These plants can yield up to 2.5 tons of nickel per hectare per year.
The startup's method is faster, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly than traditional mining. It also has the added benefit of rehabilitating toxic soils. Genomines has partnerships with car manufacturers like Hyundai and Jaguar Land Rover for bio-nickel production.
With its innovative phytomining technique, Genomines is set to transform the metal extraction industry. By 2030, it aims to produce enough bio-nickel to supply the batteries for three million electric cars, contributing significantly to the shift towards sustainable energy.
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