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
Rio Tinto provides Iron Ore update following Tropical Cyclone Sean
(Posted on 24/01/25)Tropical Cyclone Sean delivered record rain along parts of the Pilbara coastline of Western Australia... Read more
Rio Tinto shows greater consistency across key operations
(Posted on 19/01/25)Rio Tinto has released fourth quarter production results. Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm said: &ldquo... Read more
Trafigura publishes 2024 Sustainability Report
(Posted on 19/01/25)Trafigura Group Pte Ltd. has published its 2024 Sustainability Report, highlighting the Group’... Read more
NGFA comments on US East and Gulf Coast port labour deal
(Posted on 10/01/25)The International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance, Ltd. have... Read more
Vitol completes acquisition of Noble Resources
(Posted on 07/01/25)Further to the announcement of 2nd August 2024, Vitol B.V. has now completed the acquisition of... Read more
Trafigura publishes 2024 Annual Results
(Posted on 17/12/24)Trafigura Group Pte Ltd, a market leader in the global commodities industry, has released results for... Read more
Anglo American completes Serpentina premium iron ore transaction
(Posted on 11/12/24)Anglo American plc has announced the completion of the transaction to combine the Serra da Serpentina... Read more
BHP Group Investor Relations Officer appointed
(Posted on 11/12/24)BHP has appointed Mark Bendall as Group Investor Relations Officer, effective 1 April 2025.Mr Bendall... Read more
Fertilizers Europe welcomes EU Members requests for tariffs on Russian fertilizers
(Posted on 04/12/24)Fertilizers Europe, the voice of the European fertilizer industry, has welcomed and fully supports the... Read more
The Cultured Hub opens its state-of-the-art biotech facility in Switzerland
(Posted on 04/12/24)The Cultured Hub officially opens its doors today, marking a milestone for the global cellular agriculture... Read more
