Rio Tinto progresses development of Quebec gallium extraction process
(Posted on 17/12/24)
As part of a research and development programme, Rio Tinto is assessing the potential for extracting and valorising gallium, a critical and strategic mineral already present in the bauxite processed in its alumina refinery in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, the only one in Canada.
When the preliminary phase of technology development is conclusive, Rio Tinto plans to build a demonstration plant in Saguenay for extraction technology that can produce up to 3.5 tonnes of gallium per year. The Government of Quebec has committed up to C$7 million for the demonstration phase. Eventually, the extraction potential of a commercial-scale plant could reach 40 tonnes annually, representing between 5 and 10% of current world gallium production.
Primary gallium is used in key sectors, including the manufacture of integrated circuits, which are of vital importance in many new technologies such as high-performance radar, smartphones, electric cars and laptops.
Jérôme Pécresse, Chief Executive, Rio Tinto Aluminium, said: ‘‘This new research and development project is destined to help strengthen the North American supply chain for critical and strategic minerals. As many important steps are yet to be achieved, Rio Tinto is strongly involved in this important journey and thanks the Government of Quebec for its important contribution.’’
Maïté Blanchette Vézina, Quebec’s Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry and Minister responsible for the Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine regions, commented: “I'm delighted to support this project, which promotes the acquisition of cutting-edge knowledge in the transformation of gallium, a critical and strategic metal in Quebec and around the world. Today's announcement is directly in line with our government's vision of a circular economy, wealth creation in a greener economy, and Quebec's influence as a world leader in critical and strategic minerals. I wish the Rio Tinto team every success in this innovative project for Quebec!”
The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, said: “When it comes to critical minerals, Canada has all it takes to be the global supplier of choice and that’s why our government is proud to work with key industry actors like Rio Tinto. Today’s announcement is a key step in developing a strategic North American supply chain and I am pleased to see all levels of government collaborate with industry to put Canada first. When economic benefits are paired with a commitment to research and development, it's a win for Canadian industry and our workers.”
In addition to aluminium, copper, iron ore and titanium dioxide, Rio Tinto already produces a wide range of critical minerals in its North American facilities, including scandium used in aluminium alloys, tellurium for solar panels and molybdenum for steel alloys. Other research and development initiatives are ongoing to evaluate the possibility of extracting new materials from the company’s existing operations.
Latest News
Bunge and Bangkok Produce Merchandising expand soy supply partnership
(Posted on 22/09/25)Bunge and Bangkok Produce Merchandising Public Company Limited, a subsidiary of Charoen Pokphand Group... Read more
NGFA applauds Senate confirmation of USDA Under Secretaries
(Posted on 22/09/25)The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) has commended the U.S. Senate for confirming three key... Read more
Agreement secures long-term bulk logistics capacity for South African miner
(Posted on 14/09/25)Transnet SOC Ltd and Tshipi é Ntle Manganese Mining (Pty) Ltd have concluded a milestone 10-year... Read more
Bühler appoints Mike Häfeli as the new CEO of Grains and Food business
(Posted on 14/09/25)Bühler Group has announced a key leadership transition within its Grains & Food business. After... Read more
ADM increases export capacity with expanded Windsor, Ontario grain terminal
(Posted on 09/09/25)ADM Agri-Industries in Windsor has celebrated the opening of its expanded grain terminal at the Port... Read more
Anglo American and Teck to combine to form global critical minerals champion
(Posted on 09/09/25)Anglo American plc and Teck Resources Limited have announced that they have reached an agreement to... Read more
Ag leaders urge Senate to confirm Dr. Julie Callahan as Chief Negotiator
(Posted on 09/09/25)The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), joined by 89 agricultural organizations, has voiced... Read more
Rio Tinto streamlines to unlock additional shareholder value
(Posted on 01/09/25)Rio Tinto has announced a new operating model and executive team to shape the company’s next chapter... Read more
Government of Canada disappoints Canadian steel producers
(Posted on 01/09/25)Catherine Cobden, President and CEO of the Canadian Steel Producers Association (CSPA), has released... Read more
BHP’s record operational performance delivers resilient returns and growth
(Posted on 25/08/25)BHP have released financial results for the full year ended 30 June 2025.BHP Chief Executive Officer... Read more
