Alcoa exploring gallium production in WA

Alcoa has teamed up with Japanese partners to explore the feasibility of producing gallium at one of its alumina refineries in Western Australia.

The company’s Australian arm has announced a joint development agreement with Japan Australia Gallium Associates (JAGA), which is itself a joint venture (JV) between Sojitz Corporation and the Japan Organisation for Metals and Energy Security.

Gallium, recognised internationally as a critical mineral, is used in the production of semi-conductors. It also has further applications across the broader technology and defence industries.

It is produced as a by-product during the processing of bauxite to produce aluminium and zinc. Currently, China produces around 80 per cent of the world’s total gallium supply, but market control measures introduced in 2023 have created new incentives for alternative supply chains.

Alcoa of Australia president Elsabe Muller said the JV would assess the potential for a co-located facility in WA.

“This opportunity could deliver additional value from our established operations and further demonstrate how Alcoa’s longstanding mineral processing capabilities can be significant in supporting state, national and global objectives in technology and national defence,” she said.

“We welcome the opportunity to work with the JAGA partners, including Sojitz, who has considerable connection with midstream gallium refiners and manufacturers and would be an offtake customer in the project.”

The partners are aiming to make a final investment decision before the end of 2025, with the view to begin production from 2026.