Non-Bauxite Alumina Processes

Non-bauxite alumina processes are creating alternative pathways for aluminum production as Canadian Energy Metals (CEM) advances its Thor Project in Saskatchewan. The company achieved proof-of-concept for producing smelter-grade alumina from black shale, with samples meeting the purity and specifications of material produced through the conventional Bayer Process. The development builds on CEM’s previous recovery of high-purity and chemical-grade alumina from the same resource.

Producing multiple alumina products from black shale could give CEM greater flexibility when determining the commercial direction of the Thor Project. The company has also begun a Prefeasibility Study to assess mining, refining, smelting, infrastructure, costs, and market opportunities. If commercially viable, the project could establish an additional North American source of aluminum feedstock, helping diversify supply while giving CEM access to multiple product markets from a single domestic resource.