ASX-listed Queensland Pacific Metals is spearheading the Townsville Energy Chemicals Hub (TECH) project to establish an environmentally sustainable critical minerals refinery within the Lansdown Eco-Industrial Precinct under the Townsville City Council.
This initiative aims to import high-quality ore from New Caledonia and process it in Townsville, employing a revolutionary circular manufacturing process, the company said in a news release.
Notably, this process utilises captured waste mine gas to achieve a substantial reduction in Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions, with a commitment to zero process liquid discharges and no tailings waste, as all materials are transformed into value-added products.
Central to the TECH Project’s vision is the production of critical minerals essential for various technological applications, including emissions reduction, advanced manufacturing, and defence.
Key products such as nickel sulphate, cobalt sulphate, and high-purity alumina hold pivotal roles in the production of lithium-ion batteries, LEDs, microchips, and sapphire glass.
Furthermore, the TECH Project is set to generate valuable co-products, ranging from hematite pellets for steel production to fertilisers and soil conditioners like ammonium nitrate and gypsum.
These offerings provide not only vital materials for diverse industries but also eco-friendly alternatives that support sustainable practices.
At the heart of the TECH Project lies the Direct Nickel Process (DNi ProcessTM), a proprietary nickel processing technology developed in Australia in collaboration with CSIRO.
Queensland Pacific Metals, under the Altilium Group, has secured rights to utilise this patented technology.
With significant enhancements made over the past three years through Australian research and development efforts, the commercialization of the DNi ProcessTM marks a pivotal advancement for the TECH Project.
Dr Stephen Grocott, managing director and CEO of Queensland Pacific Metals, emphasised the project’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
He stated, “By harnessing groundbreaking technologies and forming strategic alliances, we are not only enhancing Australia’s position in the global technology sector but also contributing significantly to the local economy in Townsville and beyond.”
Dr Grocott highlighted the TECH Project’s strategic benefits, including key partnerships in the Pacific region and substantial economic contributions to the Townsville and North Queensland areas.
With binding ore supply agreements secured with major mining companies in New Caledonia, the TECH Project is poised to address critical gaps in the global supply chain for green metals.
The TECH Project’s impact on Townsville is projected to be substantial, with estimates indicating job creation, economic growth, and increased manufacturing activity.
Dr Grocott added, “This is exactly the type of project the Queensland and Commonwealth Governments have been calling for many years – advanced manufacturing that value-adds in Australia, creating high-skilled and high paid careers in a modern, clean industry.”
