Unlocking South Africa’s long-term
PGM potentialThe draft National Platinum Strategy for RSA was developed by the MCSA. The focus is to realize the world’s largest PGM resource through developing markets,that enable the growth of the PGM mining sector. This would add about R8 trillion toSouth Africa’s economy by 2050, and about another 1 million direct and indirect jobs.Strategy needs collaboration between government and industry to tackle short termchallenges (electricity, security, rail, local government, local community development) while at the same time investing in demand creation and in the long-term mining future.A concerted and coordinated effort by the public and private sector, supported by theframework of a national strategy, is essential to enhance the short-term and ensure that the future realizes the promise.As President Mandela said, a vision without action is just day-dreaming, action without a vision is merely passing time. But a Vision with Action can change the World.
PGMs – The Green Metals
PGMs in autocatalysts transform noxious exhaust gases – hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide into more benign components of water, carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas.
Green hydrogen made in electrolysers via renewable energy – key to decarbonising heavy industry & everyday activities
PGM-based proton exchange membrane (PEM) technology well-suited to using intermittent renewable energy feed (such as from solar)
Hydrogen fuel cells – efficient & environmentally friendly alternative for delivering power
Platinum – effective catalyst for PEM electrolysers and fuel cells
Iridium – key to hydrogen economy, in PEM electrolysers with platinum to produce hydrogen
Ruthenium – effective in PEM fuel cells with platinum, scalable from small devices to heavy duty transport.
