Rio Tinto and Aymium Form Biocarbon Joint Venture in Quebec

Rio Tinto and Aymium have established a new joint venture called Évolys Québec Inc. to produce a renewable metallurgical biocarbon aimed at reducing carbon emissions in large-scale industrial processes. Derived from biomass residues, biocarbon emerges as a sustainable substitute for the traditional anthracite employed in Rio Tinto's Sorel-Tracy metallurgical complex's ilmenite reduction process. By incorporating this innovative biocarbon, the joint venture aims to enhance environmental sustainability while maintaining efficiency in industrial operations.

The joint venture will be based at a former pulp and paper mill site in Thurso, Québec, a location selected by the Government of Québec for revitalization by Rio Tinto and Aymium. This facility is set to leverage Aymium’s proprietary technology to produce high-quality biocarbon locally. This biocarbon will serve as a critical feedstock that is in high demand and pivotal to Rio Tinto’s decarbonization strategy. The project aims to breathe new life into the site while advancing sustainability goals through innovative technology.

Rio Tinto is already observing promising results with Aymium’s technology at its Sorel-Tracy metallurgical complex, where materials produced by Aymium are being utilized effectively. This successful application underscores the potential of the new facility to contribute significantly to Rio Tinto’s environmental commitments. The venture represents a key step in reducing carbon emissions in large-scale industrial processes and demonstrates a forward-looking approach to integrating renewable resources into industrial practices.

Sophie Bergeron, Executive Director of Rio Tinto Iron and Titanium (RTFT) and Diamonds emphasized the central role of decarbonization in Rio Tinto’s strategy. She highlighted the Évolys joint venture as a pivotal initiative to produce local biocarbon, which will help reduce the carbon footprint of their operations in Québec. Bergeron expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with the Government of Québec to repurpose the former Fortress plant site in Thurso. She also noted the positive impact on both the environment and the regional economy, looking forward to working with local communities and their partner, Aymium, to realize this project’s benefits.

James Mennell, CEO of Aymium, expressed excitement about the opportunity to deepen their collaboration with Rio Tinto through the Évolys joint venture. He highlighted the significance of developing this new project in Québec, complementing their existing projects in the United States. Mennell noted Aymium’s active engagement in offering biocarbon products across Canada and recognized substantial potential for expanding biocarbon applications across various industries. He emphasized that this partnership aligns with their goals of broadening the use of sustainable biocarbon solutions and driving innovation in multiple sectors.

Pierre Fitzgibbon, Quebec's Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, highlighted the Évolys Québec project as a key initiative for the sustainable revitalization of the former Fortress site. He emphasized that the project represents a fresh beginning, leveraging technology that not only decarbonizes the economy but also adds value to the region's forest residues. Fitzgibbon underscored the dual benefits of the project: advancing environmental sustainability while promoting regional economic development through innovative use of local resources.

Évolys will lease a section of the pulp and paper mill for the revitalization efforts. Both Rio Tinto and Aymium are dedicated to advancing innovative products and technologies that extend beyond the traditional use of biocarbon as a replacement for fossil fuels. Their focus includes exploring new applications and benefits of biocarbon in industrial processes.

Additional details about the project, including the timeline for the commencement of production, will be provided once the transition process is finalized. This information will shed light on the next steps and key milestones as the facility prepares to begin operations.