Brazilian Nickel Project Highlighted at SIMEXMIN 2026

The 12th Brazilian Mineral Exploration Symposium (SIMEXMIN 2026), held in Ouro Preto from May 17 to 20, placed critical minerals and sustainable mining technologies at the forefront of industry discussions. Among the featured presentations, Brazilian Nickel showcased its nickel project in Piauí, which is considered strategic to Brazil’s energy transition.

During his presentation, Gabriel Sepulveda, Geology Manager at Brazilian Nickel, discussed the project's journey, which encompasses more than fifty years of geological studies. “The Brejo Seco mine represents the culmination of decades of learning, enabling greater operational predictability and quality control in the mining of lateritic ores,” said Gabriel.

The project is supported by an extensive database of drilling results and metallurgical analyses, allowing for detailed 3D modelling of the deposit. The heap leaching technology applied to the project has been validated through a pilot plant, enabling the production of nickel and cobalt with lower energy intensity.

Strategy and Innovation

Brazilian Nickel highlighted the importance of its project to the global critical minerals market, reinforcing Brazil’s position as a strategic supplier of nickel for batteries and other technologies associated with electrification and the energy transition. The company also emphasized the project’s advanced stage of development and its strong ESG credentials, including low CO₂ emissions.

“Brazil has the mineral resources and technical expertise to play a significant role in the global supply chain. Projects such as Brazilian Nickel’s demonstrate that operational efficiency, technological innovation, and sustainability can go hand in hand,” Gabriel concluded.

SIMEXMIN 2026, organized by the Brazilian Mining Sector Development and Innovation Agency (ADIMB), brought together leading figures from industry and academia. The event promoted discussions on innovation, technology, sustainability, and the security of global supply chains, further consolidating its position as one of the leading forums for mining professionals and investors in Latin America.