Rio Tinto is set to adopt new Elysis carbon-free technology at their Arvida smelting complex in Quebec, Canada. This cutting-edge technology aims to accelerate the transition to more environmentally friendly production methods. The new technology will replace traditional aluminium production methods, eliminating greenhouse gases while producing oxygen.
Elysis uses inert anode technology, which removes the carbon component from the process of separating aluminum from oxygen. This means that only oxygen will be released from the chamber, significantly reducing carbon emissions. In Canada alone, this technology could reduce about 7 million tons of greenhouse gases per year. It also promises to improve occupational health and safety, reduce capital intensity and operating costs, and increase productivity.
The pilot plant will be designed and built at the complex and is expected to start operations in 2027. It will be capable of producing up to 2,500 tonnes of commercial-quality aluminum without directly emitting any greenhouse gases. Further development of Elysis technology is underway, with larger 450kA test chambers being built at Rio Tinto’s Alma smelter. The goal is to continue reducing carbon emissions and creating a more sustainable production process for aluminum products.
This new technology has been hailed as a game-changer in the aluminum industry, as it allows for a more environmentally friendly approach to production while still maintaining high levels of efficiency and productivity. With the adoption of Elysis at their Arvida smelting complex, Rio Tinto is taking a significant step towards reducing their carbon footprint and contributing towards a more sustainable future for all industries involved in aluminum production.