ALCORE advances aluminium smelter waste recycling with federal funding

ALCORE, a majorly owned subsidiary of ABX Group, a global leader in the clean technology and materials sector, is gaining traction for ramping up its production capabilities backed by federal funding for aluminium-related industrial chemicals. The funding has been provided under the Modern Manufacturing Initiative to support the development of advanced recycling processes. The firm's dynamism marks broader global and national efforts aimed at expanding sustainable industrial methods while reducing emissions from heavy industries. 

The proprietary process in ALCORE primarily aims to extract hydrogen fluoride from the aluminium smelter bath waste, along with other critical compounds. With the accumulation of funding from the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, the transition from research to commercial-scale production could be achieved. The firm's previous performance highlights the recovery of the highest fluorine with effective optimisation of temperature, concentration and particle processing, marking its position for potential commercial scalability. 

ALCORE's project, based at the Bell Bay site of Rio Tinto, is currently undergoing construction of a continuous pilot plant with financial backing from the Tasmanian Government. We expect to further assist in the completion of this stage. 

Also read: Alcore's pilot plant project to convert aluminium smelting waste into valuable industrial chemicals

With this project, the company can showcase its unique process, which is currently in progress to establish key systems and conduct operational trials within a controlled environment. Upon completion of the pilot stage, the company achieves a significant goal and milestone in delivering scalable chemical manufacturing from recycled aluminium waste streams. 

Apart from the federal funding, the firm has received approval for a particular portion of its expenditure to unlock the phases after the construction period. The firm, alongside the Department, is now looking to establish a repayment date and method that will keep the project ongoing without interfering with the compliance or execution process. 

Also read: Rio Tinto X ALCORE equals nationwide relief from aluminium fluoride imports