Rincon lithium expansion project, Argentina – update
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Name of the Project
Rincon lithium expansion project.
Location
Salta province, 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
Final system testing and commissioning have been completed on the starter plant.
Project construction is scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2025, subject to permitting.
Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
Not disclosed.
Contact Details for Project Information
Rio Tinto, email mediaenquiries@riotinto.com.
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