Minerali Industriali is an independent Italian company born from the merger of two historical Italian groups. Today it is managed by the two owner families and employs about 600 people (half of them in Italy), plus a few hundred subcontractors who carry out non-strategic activities. Minerali Industriali is present with 12 production units in Italy, 4 in Europe, 1 in Asia, 3 in North Africa and 7 in Central and South America.
Interview with Massimiliano Vulcano, CEO of Minerali Industriali Engineering.
A brief description of the company and its activities.
Massimiliano Vulcano: Minerali Industriali Engineering is the subsidiary hosting the geological & mineral dressing department of the Group: we have a long experience in mining research and consultancy services, both for captive activities and for external customers. We study and design the best technological treatment solution for raw materials from the geological survey of the deposit to the final realization of the turnkey plant. Our design team grants the best solution for any kind of ore dressing: washing, grinding, drying, optical sorting, flotation, leaching, electrostatic separation, wet/dry magnetic separation etc. If requested, we support our customers during the start-up stage and through personnel training.
What are the main areas of activity of the company?
M.V: Our company operates in several key areas within the mineral and industrial sectors.
We are specialized in geological surveys, laboratory testing, and mineral treatment, and we are able to provide comprehensive solutions for the extraction and processing of non-metallic minerals such as silica sand, quartz, feldspar, clays, and kaolins. Additionally, we design and manufacture machinery and plants for the ceramic industry and the treatment of materials like calcium carbonate, bentonites and similar.
Another core focus is the recovery and recycling of non-hazardous industrial waste. Through advanced technologies, we can transform industrial by-products into valuable resources, promoting environmental sustainability and supporting the circular economy.
Our geological research and mining consultancy division offers extensive expertise in mineral exploration and deposit characterization, assisting clients in resource assessment and development.
Furthermore, we provide engineering services and turn-key solutions for the design and production of machinery and processing plants, covering the most advanced mineral processing techniques. Our commitment to innovation, technical excellence, and customer support ensures tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients. Every raw material and every customer is different from the other!
What’s the news about new products/services?
M.V: In 2024, our Company introduced REC Solutions, a groundbreaking innovation designed to enhance efficiency and sustainability in industrial recycling. Leveraging our expertise, we developed a range of highly versatile processes that enable the recycling of waste from various industries, including ceramics, glass, Engineered stone agglomerates, and industrial minerals.
REC Solutions allow companies to reintegrate waste materials into their own production cycles, ensuring a rapid return on investment and significantly reducing disposal costs.
This innovative approach not only optimizes resource use but also supports a more sustainable and cost-effective production model.
What is the state of the market where you are currently active?
M.V: According to ACIMAC’s Fourth Quarter 2024 Survey, the market for Italian plant and machinery manufacturers is experiencing a significant downturn. The sector’s turnover recorded a notable decline in Q4 2024, reflecting overall market weakness. Both domestic and international markets have shown signs of contraction, indicating a challenging business environment for industry players.
What can you tell us about market trends?
M.V: The mining and industrial sectors are increasingly shifting towards sustainable practices and the circular economy. There is a growing demand for industrial waste recovery and recycling solutions, driving the development of technologies that minimize environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency. This trend reflects a broader industry commitment to sustainability and resource optimization.
What are the most innovative products/services marketed?
M.V: Our most innovative products and services are focused on sustainability, efficiency, and technological advancement in the mining and industrial sectors.
Sustainability and environmental impact reduction: systems for processing mining waste and energy-efficient plants.
Circular business models: our plants are designed to facilitate the reuse of materials and promote the recycling of minerals, thus reducing the need for new extraction.
Modular and scalable plants: modular mining plants allows companies to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and available resources. This flexibility reduces start-up time and initial costs, as well as facilitate maintenance and expansion.
Automation and digitization: the integration of digital technologies enable greater efficiency and productivity in mining operations, reducing operating costs and improving safety. Automated and autonomous facilities are becoming increasingly popular, stimulating innovation and investment in mining infrastructure.
What estimations do you have for the beginning of 2025?
M.V: The outlook for early 2025 remains cautious, with limited expectations for a rapid market recovery. Persistent geopolitical uncertainties, including ongoing military conflicts and trade tensions, continue to impact the industry. However, while the machinery and equipment sector faces greater challenges, the market for spare parts is expected to remain more stable.