Proposed aluminium fluoride plant at Kwinana good prospect for WA

23/3/98

A proposal by Alichem Limited to build Australia's first aluminium fluoride plant at Kwinana is a good result for Western Australia, Resources Development Minister Colin Barnett said today.

Alichem's proposed $60 million plant is intended to produce 40,000 tonnes of aluminium fluoride for aluminium producers in Australia and New Zealand. Around 30,000 tonnes are imported annually to meet current local aluminium fluoride demand. Alichem also aims to export to the Middle East and Southern Africa.

"This is an example of the type of sophisticated value-adding industry we want to see in Western Australia," Mr Barnett said.

"It has high investment levels, good strong employment, and will produce a product to replace current imports."

The Minister said the Department of Resources Development was working closely with Alichem to see the project through to finalisation.

Alichem estimates a construction workforce of 100 and up to 35 permanent positions once the plant is commissioned. The construction phase is expected to take two years once all the necessary Government approvals have been received. Alichem hopes to begin construction by the end of 1998.

Aluminium fluoride is used in aluminium smelting to assist the refining process. The sulphuric acid and alumina used in the production of aluminium fluoride will be sourced from local producers.

Media contact: Justine Whittome (08) 9222 9699