The Q-value project focuses on the exploitation, valorisation, and sustainable management of a quartz deposit located in the Meliti area of Florina, with the aim of producing high-value-added quartz products. The project is implemented by M.E.TE. S.A. within the framework of the “Research–Innovate” Action of the “ΕΣΠΑ 2021–2027” Programme, under Intervention I – “Research and Development by Enterprises.” The project addresses the challenges associated with the post-lignite era and the transition towards a more sustainable and green economy, while at the same time promoting the effective utilisation of Greece’s domestic mineral resources. M.E.TE. S.A., with many years of experience in the mining sector and significant activity in quartz extraction in Northern Greece, particularly in the Florina region, is investing in the development of innovative quartz beneficiation processes aimed at producing high-purity products with specialised specifications for industrial applications. The project seeks to integrate circular economy practices and low-environmental-impact technologies, with particular emphasis on the treatment and valorisation of fine quartz fractions that have until now been considered by-products or waste streams of the production process. Through the development of a pilot processing unit and the testing of advanced separation and beneficiation technologies, the project aims to create new products suitable for applications such as engineered quartz surfaces (e-stone), fillers, paints, glass, and other high-value industrial applications.
The main objective of the project is to upgrade M.E.TE. S.A.’s production process through the development of technological solutions for the production of high-purity quartz with increased commercial value. More specifically, the project aims to:
At the same time, the project contributes to the transformation of the company towards a modern and sustainable business model, strengthening its competitiveness and supporting the transition of the Western Macedonia region towards a new development pathway in the post-lignite era.
Through the implementation of the Q-value project, new technological and production capabilities are expected to be developed for the utilisation of quartz in high-value applications. The project will lead to the design and pilot operation of an integrated quartz processing plant capable of producing high-purity products with controlled and specialised particle-size distributions that meet the requirements of modern industrial applications.
The project is also expected to result in:
At a broader level, the project is expected to make a significant contribution to local economic development and employment, including the creation of new highly skilled jobs, while promoting the sustainable utilisation of Greece’s mineral resources and supporting the objectives of the green and circular economy.
