
Nalco to Launch India's First Gallium Recovery Plant This Month
What Happened?
National Aluminium Company Ltd (Nalco) is set to launch India's first gallium recovery plant, enhancing domestic capabilities in critical minerals. The facility, developed with BARC and the Heavy Water Board, is nearly ready for commissioning.
Key points
- The gallium recovery plant is located at the Damanjodi refinery complex in Koraput.
- Commissioning was delayed by one to two months due to supply chain disruptions.
- Gallium is crucial for sectors like semiconductors and aerospace.
- Nalco plans to invest ₹2,000 crore in extracting critical minerals from red mud and fly ash.
- The company aims for alumina production of 2.3 million tonnes in FY27.
Key insights
- This facility may reduce India's reliance on imported gallium.
- The project aligns with India's strategy to strengthen its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.
- Nalco's expansion plans could lead to increased domestic production of high-value minerals.
Why it matters
The launch of the gallium recovery plant could enhance India's self-reliance in critical minerals.
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Entities
Source
Business Standard



