Name of the Project
Rincon lithium carbon plant.

Location
Salta province, Argentina.

Project Owner/s
Rio Tinto completed the acquisition of the Rincon project in March 2022.

Project Description
Rio Tinto plans to develop a small starter battery-grade lithium carbonate plant with a capacity of 3 000 t/y.

The project includes early works to support a full-scale operation, including power line and associated substations, a construction camp and an airstrip.

Potential Job Creation
Not stated.

Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
Not stated.

Capital Expenditure
$190-million.

Planned Start/End Date
First saleable production is expected in 2024.

Latest Developments
Rio Tinto has reported that the development of the lithium carbonate starter plant is ongoing as it progressed the construction of an additional 400-bed camp facility (500 already completed) and concrete works in the quarter ended March 31, 2024.

Structural, mechanical, piping, electrical and instrumentation installation activity is ramping up to plan.

The company progressed studies for the full-scale operation during the quarter, and the exploration campaign to further understand Rincon's basin, brine and water reservoirs.

Rio continues to engage with communities, the province of Salta and the government of Argentina to ensure an open and transparent dialogue with stakeholders about the works under way.

The company continues to expect first production from the starter plant by the end of 2024.

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
None stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
Rio Tinto, tel +44 20 7781 2000.