Rio Tinto Partners with JordProxa for Rincon Lithium Project
Rio Tinto (ASX, LON: RIO) has secured a contract with JordProxa to supply an integrated process plant for its Rincon lithium project in Salta province, Argentina.
JordProxa, based in Australia, is recognized globally for its expertise in designing custom-engineered solutions and modular processing plants aimed at producing battery chemicals.
Contract Details and Technology Integration
This contract includes the modular design for key processing technologies. These entail lithium chloride (LiCl) evaporation, lithium carbonate crystallization, and various refining processes like impurity removal, sodium carbonate dissolution, bi-carbonation, de-carbonation, effluent neutralization, and CO₂ recovery.
According to JordProxa, these advanced technologies are crucial for producing high-purity, battery-grade lithium carbonate. This production meets the stringent quality standards required by the expanding electric vehicle (EV) and renewable energy markets.
Focus on Sustainability and Efficiency
Utilizing its global expertise in crystallization, evaporation technologies, and modular plant solutions, JordProxa will emphasize operational efficiency, scalability, and energy conservation in its design. This aligns with Rio Tinto’s commitment to sustainable operations at the Rincon site.
“This collaboration demonstrates our ability to provide innovative, modular solutions for critical mineral projects worldwide,” stated Nipen Shah, sales director at JordProxa. “Our engineering approach maximizes resource efficiency while ensuring high-quality lithium carbonate production.”
Paul Browne, managing director of JordProxa, added, “We are enthusiastic about contributing to a project that will notably impact the global lithium supply chain, supporting the energy transition and a sustainable future.”
Production Targets and Environmental Commitment
Rincon is slated to begin production in 2028, marking Rio Tinto’s first commercial-scale lithium operation. The project will utilize direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology designed to reduce environmental impact while enhancing lithium recovery rates. When operating at full capacity, Rincon is anticipated to produce about 60,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium carbonate annually.
“The Rincon lithium project is central to our strategy in supplying essential lithium materials for the global energy transition,” said Glenn Anderson, project director at Rio Tinto. “By collaborating with JordProxa, we aim to introduce innovative solutions that enhance energy efficiency and optimize resource use, embodying our commitment to responsible and sustainable development.”
