A ceremony to mark the completion of construction of Train 2 of the Lithium Hydroxide Monohydrate Chemical Facility (Facility), which comprises Train 1 and Train 2, was held in Gwangyang, Korea today, marking the achievement of Korea’s first lithium hydroxide plant.
Constructed as a joint venture between Pilbara Minerals and POSCO Holdings, the Facility has the potential to produce up to 43,000 tonnes of lithium hydroxide per year at full capacity, enough to make batteries for around one million electric vehicles.
Pilbara Minerals has an 18% equity stake in the project and will supply spodumene concentrate from its Pilgangoora Operation in Western Australia under a long term offtake agreement.
The completion ceremony, attended by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea, Han Duck-soo, and POSCO Group Chairman, Chang In-Hwa, was held today.
Pilbara Minerals Non-Executive Director Steve Scudamore AM, who attended the event, extended his congratulations on the milestone.
“I acknowledge our joint venture partner, POSCO Holdings, and everyone who has played a role in building this outstanding facility, as well as the Pilbara Minerals team who produce the raw materials at our Pilgangoora Operation in Western Australia,” Mr Scudamore said.
“Our partnership with POSCO began six years ago in 2018 with a bold vision to diversify global battery chemicals production.
“We are looking forward to continuing our long and prosperous partnership with POSCO in the many years to come.
“Together, we are working to make a difference in the world by enabling a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.”
Ramp up of Train 2 anticipated to be achieved within 12 – 18 months of the completion of commissioning. Ramp up of production for Train 1 commenced in 2024 with certification for the battery-grade lithium hydroxide monohydrate underway with multiple South Korean customers.
The Facility places the Pilbara Minerals and POSCO Holdings joint venture as one of the few lithium chemicals producers outside of China.
Extracting greater value from the battery materials supply chain by diversifying revenue streams is a key strategic focus for Pilbara Minerals in line with the Company’s ambition to become a fully integrated battery materials supplier.
