Curated Database of Tetrahedrite-Rich Mineral Samples from Secondary Raw Materials (START Project)

This technical note presented a curated database of mineral samples collected and processed within the START project, consolidating and harmonising data produced by multiple partners. The dataset focused on materials obtained in Work Package 2 (Selection of mine waste sites and physical mineral separation and concentration), including samples before and after processing, with particular emphasis on those containing a significant fraction of tetrahedrite. It addressed a key challenge of ensuring consistency, compatibility, and comparability of characterisation data across partners, thereby enabling reliable cross-sample analysis and supporting the evaluation of secondary raw materials for producing tetrahedrite-based thermoelectric materials. Analysis of the database indicated that the mineral ore most suitable for exploitation was associated with the Mária mine (Slovakia), connected to the Strieborná vein deposit of the Rožňava field.