The first batch of rough selenium using a unique technology of Satbayev University scientists was released in Balkhash

The first batch of rough selenium was released in Balkhash using a unique technology developed by the team of scientists from Satbayev University Metallurgy and Enrichment Institute under the leadership of doctor of technical sciences, professor Bagdaulet Kenzhaliyev.

This is the first industrial production using the vacuum distillation method in Kazakhstan. This environmentally friendly technology makes it possible to obtain pure selenium with the content of more than 99.5% of the basic selenium and increase the cost of selenium from 30 to 97 percent of the global market price.

The first batch of technical selenium of ST-1 brand in 100 tons was produced by “Kazakhmys Progress” selenium refining and slag processing workshop in the first days of 2025. The project was implemented with the support of Science Committee at Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

What is the uniqueness of the new selenium production method?

The vacuum distillation method provides a high degree of selenium purification without the use of reagents, which makes the process cheap and environmentally friendly. Thanks to it, the operation of a unique installation was mastered that empowers to produce products that meet the global non-ferrous metals market requirements.

The history of producing the rough selenium at “Kazakhmys” enterprises

The history of the project began with modernizing the gas purification system of the refining section of “Kazakhmys Smelting” precious metals workshop in 2017-2018. This made it possible to increase the production of rough selenium from 60 to 100 tons per year, making refining economically feasible.

Executing the project for refining rough selenium, produced as a by-product in manufacturing the precious metals, began at the Balkhash industrial site in 2020. In 2022, a new production site was launched, and in 2023, its commercial operation started.

What is the value of the project?

Recall that Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov spoke about the given technology at the expanded government meeting. According to him, selenium is a necessary element for many high-tech industries.

Today, selenium is used in the production of solar panels, copiers, glass, ceramics, as well as in medicine and the chemical industry. The launch of a new production facility in Balkhash opens up prospects for strengthening the economic positions of Kazakhstan and “Kazakhmys” in the global non-ferrous metals market.

The planned annual volume of processed raw materials is 75 tons of rough selenium and 1,200 tons of precious metal slag.