What is an OreSand project?

An OreSand project is a structured effort to co-produce OreSand at, or from, a mine site and put it to use in real markets. It goes beyond lab tests and one-off trials.

An OreSand project links: 

• a specific ore body and processing route; 
• a clear product specification for OreSand; 
• one or more real-world applications (for example, concrete, bricks, road sub-base); and 
• the enabling conditions that let this work at scale, such as permits, standards, buyers, and finance. 

If you are new to the concept of OreSand as a material, start with the main OreSand page on the Global Centre for Mineral Security website. This Hub page then helps you see what it means to turn that concept into a project. 

Why OreSand matters 

Global demand for sand and aggregates is huge. The impacts of extracting natural sand are growing. At the same time, mining generates large volumes of waste that bring environmental risk and cost. 

OreSand offers a way to use more of the ore body and to reduce tailings. OreSand projects are how this becomes real. 

Good OreSand projects: 

• Reduce tailings production and storage needs. OreSand is produced from the ore body via dedicated circuits, not as a residual waste stream. 
• Create products that can meet market specifications. Depending on the ore and processing route, OreSand can serve construction uses (for example, concrete, bricks, road sub-base), selected industrial applications (such as glass and blasting media), or land-reclamation and coastal-protection contexts. This always depends on compliance and performance testing. 
• Avoid costs and risks from natural sand sourcing. OreSand provides an alternative to extraction from rivers, coasts, and other sensitive environments. This can reduce biodiversity impacts, geomorphological change, and social conflict. 

An OreSand project therefore sits at the intersection of mine planning, tailings management, and sand supply. It creates new value while reducing pressure elsewhere. 

OreSand project viability 

Technical innovation is essential, but it is not enough on its own. A viable OreSand project brings together: 

• Processing innovation. Separation, sizing, shaping, and quality control that can run reliably within the plant. 
• Product–market fit. Clear understanding of which markets the OreSand product can serve, and what standards and performance criteria apply. 
• Regulatory and standards pathways. Permitting, licensing, and acceptance by relevant standards bodies. 
• Commercial arrangements. Business models that work for the mine operator, downstream users, and any intermediaries. 
• Capabilities and skills. People who can operate the new process, engage with markets, and manage risks. 

The OreSand Knowledge Hub focuses on this whole system, not just the processing plant. The Toolkit and case materials aim to help teams judge whether they have the pieces in place, and where to focus next.