Shanxi University signs an agreement at an applications promotions conference in Taiyuan on July 2. [Photo/sxu.edu.cn]

Shanxi University (SXU)?signed an agreement at an application promotions conference on new materials, products and technologies in North China's Shanxi province, held in the capital of Taiyuan on July 2.

The university signed a contract at the conference with Shanxi Dadi Environment Investment Holding Co for a project for applications technology and demonstration of ecological restoration materials made from coal-based solid waste.

The university's?officials said the project is an important achievement for the university to integrate its academic disciplines, technological and industrial development and to contribute to regional economic growth.

Early in September 2019, Shanxi University together with Peking University, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing) and Shanxi Dadi Minji Environment Co got the green light from the authorities for carrying?out the project.

Officials said it targets the status quo of large amount of coal-based solid waste and low resource utilization rate in Shanxi and meets the urgent needs for new technologies and materials for the environmental restoration of mining areas.

The aim is to turn coal-based solid waste into treasure – materials that can be used to help restore the environment. SXU officials said the project will reduce environmental pollution and land occupation, featuring good economic and environmental benefits and broad market prospects.