With a total investment of more than US$2 billion by Rio Tinto, the Rincon Project will develop a scalable, long-life resource capable of producing 50 000 t/y of battery-grade lithium carbonate from raw brine.
Worley are responsible for the delivery of the lithium carbonate plant and coordination with all subcontractors, including technology providers and construction contractors.
The facility is situated on the Puna de Argentina, a high plateau in the Andes that spans the provinces of Jujuy, Salta, and Catamarca. This location makes construction and design particularly challenging, given its high altitude and remote setting.
The project builds on Worley’s existing partnership with, and work on, the Rincon 3000 starter plant.
Andrew Roy, President of Latin American operations, said:
“This joint effort went from concept to reality at an unprecedented speed for both companies. It’s a great example of Worley working with our customer, not just for our customer.”