Orica and Fertiberia have completed the first blast using low-carbon Technical Ammonium Nitrate (TAN) at the Canteras de Santullán quarry in Spain.
This achievement follows their September 2023 partnership announcement to supply low-carbon TAN for sustainable blasting solutions, Orica said in an ASX announcement.
At the Canteras de Santullán, Orica utilised ammonium nitrate produced by Fertiberia with renewable hydrogen, creating a low-carbon explosive product.
This event marks the first industrial-scale use of such a product, replacing conventional explosives with a more sustainable alternative.
Gonzalo Fernández Ozalla, Fertiberia’s Director for Industrial Development and Projects, emphasized the importance of this milestone.
“The decarbonisation of mining, a crucial sector for the energy transition due to its role in extracting copper and other essential industrial minerals, is set to begin with the first use of a more sustainable product. The blast marks a further step towards reducing the carbon footprint of mining activities.”
According to Orica, using low-carbon TAN can revolutionize the industry, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional TAN.
Pedro de Andrés Sáez, General Manager at Canteras de Santullán, expressed pride in their selection for this pioneering moment.
“We are proud that Fertiberia and Orica selected Santullán’s quarry for this pioneering moment in mining, both in Spain and Europe. The blast involves the use of ammonium nitrate produced with a lower carbon footprint.”
He added, “As a company, we are deeply committed to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and maintaining a strong relationship with the local community – This product supports that commitment.”
Meanwhile, Jesus Domingo, Orica’s Lead Commercial for Southern Europe, highlighted the broader implications for the industry.
“Mining is a necessity as the world transitions, and it is crucial we mine safely, more efficiently, and more sustainably.”
“The collaboration between Orica, Fertiberia, and Canteras de Santullán to use low-carbon ammonium nitrate represents a significant advancement in the explosives industry, and for the broader mining industry,” Domingo concluded.
