Four-hundred-million-dollar strategy for mining lithium
Title: Portovesme Srl's Innovative Project for Sustainable Lithium Extraction and Critical Metals Recovery in Sardinia
Hey there, let's dive into an exciting project by Portovesme Srl, a subsidiary of Glencore group located in Sardinia, Italy. This project is all about closing loops and creating a sustainable supply chain for critical materials, focusing on lithium extraction from end-of-life batteries and the recovery of other critical metals for electric vehicle batteries.
First off, let's talk about that badass foundry in San Gavino. After resuming operations in October 2024, they've kick-started the second trial to produce pure bismuth from lead refining, y'know, that golden yellow stuff? The results from their previous experiments were more than satisfactory, with yields of 40% and then a whopping 85%! They've even set up a mini-factory for this experimental business, valoring a product obtained from lead refining with significant value in niche markets, ranging from medicine to aerospace.
Now, let's switch gears to the Portovesme plant. Remember when they had to shut down the zinc line due to high-energy costs back in December? Well, it turns out energy is a big deal, making up 32% of the operating costs before Covid, and now a mind-blowing 65% thanks to skyrocketing energy prices. But don't worry, they're not walking away from the island, no sir! Instead, they're eyeing up lithium and a €400 million project that doesn't give two hoots about energy costs!
This project involves extracting lithium, nickel, copper, water, manganese, and cobalt from black mass (end-of-life batteries leftovers). They're prepping to update the project, presenting it to the European Commission, and hoping to start the authorization process soon. If approved, the feasibility study should be completed by 2027, which could lead to the actual realization phase.
Once fully operational, the plant could process between 50,000 to 70,000 tons of black mass per year. This production would allow for the refining of strategic critical metals for electric vehicle batteries, equivalent to around 600,000 vehicles per year. Keep in mind, Italy immatriculated around 60,000 electric vehicles in 2024, so this baby's gonna play a significant role in meeting European demands.
So, there you have it! Portovesme Srl's project is more than just a fancy name – it's a game-changer for sustainability in the electric vehicle industry. It's all about embracing a circular economy, reducing waste, and creating a cleaner planet, one batteried-up car at a time. Stick around for more updates on this project, as things are bound to get interesting!
- This innovative project by Portovesme Srl, focusing on lithium extraction and critical metals recovery, showcases the intersection of science and industry, as well as the importance of environmental-science in creating a sustainable supply chain for vital materials.
- As the Portovesme project progresses, it's crucial to address the significant role of finance in supporting such advanced technology endeavors, given the high operational costs often associated with these ventures.
- With an emphasis on sustainable lithium extraction and the recovery of critical metals for electric vehicle batteries, the Portovesme project promises to revolutionize the industry, demonstrating how technology can lead to a cleaner and more efficient future.
