Rincon lithium expansion project, Argentina


Name of the Project
Rincon lithium expansion project.
Location
Lithium triangle, Argentina.
Project Owner/s
Global mining company Rio Tinto.
Project Description
The project comprises brine extraction using a production wellfield, processing and waste facilities, as well as associated infrastructure. The project uses direct lithium extraction technology, a process that supports water conservation, reduces waste and produces lithium carbonate more consistently than other methods. It also entails expanding Rincon’s capacity to 60 000 t/y of battery-grade lithium carbonate, and includes a 3 000 t starter plant and a 57 000 t expansion plant. Rincon’s mine life is expected to be 40 years.
Potential Job Creation
Not stated.
Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
Not disclosed.
Capital Expenditure
$2.5-billion.
Planned Start/End Date
Construction of the expanded plant is scheduled to start in mid-2025, subject to permitting. First production is expected in 2028, followed by a three-year ramp-up to full production.
Latest Developments
None stated.
Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
Not disclosed.
Contact Details for Project Information
Rio Tinto, email mediaenquiries@riotinto.com.
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