The Western Australian Government is keen to explore opportunities associated with the co-products of lithium processing.
The project, which will see the State Government collaborate with industry bodies and companies, will evaluate the potential use of delithiated beta spodumene (DBS), a co-product of processing lithium ore, as a road-building material.
By analysing the material’s performance as an alternative to virgin sand, this research will confirm if the material is environmentally safe for use in future infrastructure projects.
WA mines and petroleum minister David Michael said exploring new critical mineral opportunities would be critical to meet future demand.
“With demand for critical minerals expected to grow as the global clean energy transition gathers pace, developing innovative, circular economy approaches linked to our mineral resources and their downstream processing provides great opportunities for the state,” he said.
“In a global setting where governments are looking at ways to improve sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and society is demanding clean products, industry is having to work harder than ever to be at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing and the circular economy.”
This work builds on an existing demonstration of the material in the Wilman Wadandi Highway which was overseen by ChemCentre and the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRIWA).
“Through this initiative, our goal is to promote the use of DBS in line with the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Strategy 2030, focusing on boosting resource recovery and supporting a circular economy,” WA environment minister Reece Whitby said.
“The outcomes of this project will contribute to a more circular economy, reducing reliance on landfill, cutting carbon emissions and minimising environmental impact.”
Key stakeholders in the initiative include the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, MRIWA, Main Roads Western Australia, ChemCentre, and leading lithium processors in the state.