Iluka partners with JordProxa to build Australia’s first CO2 capture plant at Eneabba refinery, boosting sustainability, efficiency, and global rare-earth leadership.
Iluka Resources has selected JordProxa Pty Ltd, a Perth-based engineering company, to deliver a custom-designed carbon dioxide (CO2) capture plant for its flagship Eneabba rare-earths refinery in Western Australia. This project marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first dedicated CO2 capture facility of its kind in Australia and one of only a handful of rare-earth refineries operating outside of China. The development further deepens the collaboration between Iluka and JordProxa, following their earlier partnership on supplying ten modular evaporation plants at Eneabba.
The newly awarded plant will focus on the efficient recovery of CO2 from boiler off-gas streams. The design employs an aqua ammonia solution to absorb CO2, resulting in a carefully controlled mixture of ammonium carbonate and bicarbonate at a regulated pH level. This step is crucial not only for meeting stringent ammonia emission standards but also for ensuring accurate CO2 recovery, which has a direct impact on downstream chemical processes within the refinery.
JordProxa’s solution integrates three specialized gas-processing columns, each serving a distinct purpose. The first column handles gas conditioning along with primary cooling and polishing. The other two columns are dedicated to CO2 absorption and the final polishing of gases before release. The system as a whole is engineered to strike an optimal balance between environmental performance and operational efficiency. By carefully minimizing energy consumption and lowering running costs, the plant is designed to achieve sustainable performance without sacrificing recovery effectiveness.
An additional highlight of the project lies in its construction and installation strategy. The larger columns will be supplied in separate parts to be assembled directly at the Eneabba site. In contrast, supporting equipment such as pumps, heat exchangers, and ancillary systems will be delivered in modular skids. This modular approach simplifies the overall installation process, reduces potential risks during on-site assembly, and ensures a higher standard of quality through precise off-site fabrication.
Beyond the technical aspects, this project reflects Iluka Resources’ growing commitment to sustainable operations and environmental responsibility in the rare-earths sector. By investing in CO2 capture technology, the company not only complies with evolving environmental standards but also positions itself as a leader in cleaner and more efficient mineral processing. With the Eneabba refinery being a strategically important facility outside of China, the implementation of advanced CO2 management further enhances its global significance. JordProxa’s innovative contribution is set to deliver both economic and environmental benefits, reinforcing the value of this partnership.
