Presentation
History
Mining activity in Almadén dates back to the 3rd century BC, becoming established in the 16th century as an important industrial Centre. In 1982, management of the mines was transferred to Minas de Almadén y Arrayanes S.A., S.M.E. (MAYASA), a state‑owned company created for their operation.
After centuries of mining activity, mercury production ceased in 2003 and the remaining commercial activity ended in 2011, marking the close of a historic era.
In this context of economic transformation, and as a response to the need for adaptation following the end of mining operations, the Mercury Technology Centre was created in 2008 with the aim of harnessing the knowledge accumulated over centuries regarding mercury management.
The Centre thus represents a new chapter for the region: the transition from a traditional mining model to an innovative approach based on research, sustainability, and environmentally applied technology.
General Objectives
To assess environmental mercury levels in the Almadén area and promote the necessary corrective actions. To extrapolate the studies, methodologies, and techniques to any other region within the European Union, candidate countries, and third countries, with special attention to South America.
To promote the technological development required for the comprehensive management of mercury—its handling, transport, storage techniques, treatment, decontamination techniques—along with the training of experts and the international cooperation and dissemination of technologies and knowledge related to this metal.
To foster the process of technology transfer by making available to other public or private organizations and universities, both national and international, the knowledge and capabilities acquired through the research projects promoted by this Technology Centre.
Where we are
The Mercury Technology Centre is located within the Cerco de San Teodoro, in the former Laboratory and Environmental Area facilities of Minas de Almadén. The Centre consists of two buildings from the 1980s, situated within the Almadén Historic Mining Complex, which have been rehabilitated and integrated into a single fully renovated building, featuring a communication system that ensures accessibility across all floors.
The building housing the Centre has a constructed area of approximately 1,500 m², distributed over four floors, where its five laboratories are located, along with a sample preparation room, a storage area for samples and reagents, as well as a library, training classroom, meeting rooms, and offices.
Lines of activity
The Mercury Technology Centre structures its activity into several strategic areas focused on the analysis, control, and management of mercury pollution. These include:
- The Environment and Laboratory Area, dedicated to the identification, diagnosis, and remediation of contaminated zones
- The Environmental Monitoring Area, responsible for the follow up of environments historically linked to mercury
- The R&D&I Area, devoted to research, development, and innovation in this field
- The External Services Area, focused on evaluation, decontamination, and technical assistance to third parties
- Certifications
We currently hold ISO 9001 certification, which guarantees the quality of our processes. We are also in the process of implementing and obtaining new certifications that will further strengthen our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement
Sustainability
The Mercury Technology Centre maintains a strong commitment to sustainability, directing its activities toward environmental protection and the responsible management of resources. Through research and the development of innovative technologies, it works to reduce the impact of heavy metals and to improve mercury storage and decontamination processes.
It also contributes to the sustainable development of the Almadén region, promoting a model based on knowledge, safety, and respect for the environment, in line with current European regulations such as Regulation (EU) 2017/852 on mercury.
Work team
The Mercury Technology Centre is made up of specialists in chemistry, environmental science, and engineering who develop solutions for the monitoring, analysis, and treatment of mercury. From trace‑level detection (ppb/ppt) to industrial applications, our work ensures precision, safety, and compliance with international regulations.
In addition, the Centre welcomes numerous interns and scholarship holders each year, actively contributing to their training and professional development. This educational role not only fosters learning in a real working environment but also supports young people in their academic path and future integration into the scientific and technical fields.
The Centre’s staff ensures the proper management and coordination of its activities, guaranteeing the effective development of its scientific, technical, and institutional functions, as well as the dissemination of its results and projects.
