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Alcoa Advances ELYSIS Technology with Rio Tinto for Carbon-Free Aluminum Smelting
Slice of Energy Team
July 08, 2024
Key Highlights:
ELYSIS technology eliminates all GHG emissions from traditional smelting.
First industrial-scale demonstration by Rio Tinto at Arvida, Quebec.
Alcoa can purchase up to 40% of the produced metal.
Target for first production is by 2027.
Proprietary anodes and cathodes manufactured by Alcoa.
Source (Business Wire)
Notable Quote:
"Since inventing the aluminum smelting process in 1886, which is still in use today, Alcoa has continued to create transformational technologies to improve our industry. We are proud to progress the technology initially developed at our technical center to its next phase within the ELYSIS partnership. Aluminum plays a critical role in the world’s energy transition and decarbonization efforts; with the ELYSIS technology, the smelting of this important metal can also be done without direct carbon emissions."
Our Take:
The launch of the first industrial-scale demonstration of ELYSIS technology marks a significant milestone in the aluminum industry's journey toward sustainability. By eliminating all greenhouse gas emissions from the smelting process and producing oxygen as a byproduct, ELYSIS technology could revolutionize the sector, aligning with global decarbonization goals. Alcoa's strategic involvement and ability to purchase a significant portion of the produced metal further strengthen its commitment to sustainable practices. This development not only underscores the innovative capabilities of Alcoa and Rio Tinto but also sets a new standard for environmentally responsible industrial processes. As the world increasingly focuses on reducing carbon footprints, such advancements are crucial for the future of green manufacturing.