NALCO Delays Gallium Extraction Project Despite MoU with BARC in 2016
NALCO signed an MoU with BARC in 2016 to develop gallium extraction technology from Bayer liquor. A recent report indicates that a pilot plant is being set up to assess feasibility. Gallium is crucial for semiconductor applications and has strategic importance for India, with potential annual production estimated at 20 tonnes, translating to revenue of about ₹400 crore.
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NALCO signed a memorandum of understanding with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in 2016 to extract gallium from Bayer liquor, a byproduct of alumina refining. After ten years, a pilot plant is reportedly being established to evaluate the project's technical and commercial feasibility.
Gallium, essential for semiconductor technology, has applications in defense due to its superior properties compared to silicon. The bauxite ore from Odisha, used by NALCO, contains higher concentrations of gallium, with an estimated production potential of 20 tonnes per year. The current price of gallium has increased from $274 per kg in January 2018 to $2,101 per kg.
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