Creation of a comprehensive open source textbook on hydrometallurgy for engineering students

Project Title	Creation of a comprehensive open source textbook on hydrometallurgy for engineering students: “Aqueous Pathways: The Principles of Hydrometallurgy”
Principal Investigator	Amir M. Dehkhoda
Co-Applicants	– Edouard Asselin, Professor, Department of Materials Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science – Berend Wassink, Emeritus Associate Professor of Teaching, Department of Materials Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science
Faculty	Applied Science
Funding Year	2025
Project Summary	As global environmental concerns grow, especially regarding the recovery of critical metals from fresh and recycled resources (e.g., used batteries), understanding extractive processes has become increasingly crucial. Hydrometallurgy, a key field in extractive metallurgy, uses water-based chemistry to extract essential metals. Despite its importance, there is a limited number of comprehensive and reliable textbooks on this topic, and existing resources often impose a significant cost burden on students as none of them is open-source. This project aims to address these challenges by creating a comprehensive and well-structured open-source textbook that elucidates the complex field of hydrometallurgy. The textbook covers foundational chemistry and critical processes, including mineral processing, leaching, solid-liquid separation, purification, and electrowinning. This knowledge is essential for designing and operating efficient hydrometallurgical plants. Rooted in the principles of open education, equity, diversity, and inclusion, this project seeks to provide a freely accessible resource that meets the diverse needs of students, including those with accessibility challenges and international students facing language or cultural barriers. “Aqueous Pathways: The Principles of Hydrometallurgy” will support effective teaching and learning practices, making it a valuable tool for students and professionals alike, and promoting the broader adoption of open educational resources at UBC and beyond.
Grant type	OER Affordability Grant
Funded Amount	$23,360