Cobalt Blue (COB) has reported strong progress at its Broken Hill Technology Centre, advancing toward a final investment decision for the Kwinana Cobalt Refinery (KCR) by late 2025.
Since 2021, the company has invested over $15 million to develop the centre from pilot-scale trials into a full multi-feedstock refinery. This facility now validates an end-to-end process, from ore through to cobalt sulphate and cobalt metal production.
Recent milestones include the completion of a 100-hour pilot campaign demonstrating effective cobalt solvent extraction and the production of cobalt sulphate that meets target specifications agreed with refinery partners.
Additionally, testwork has successfully produced high-purity cobalt metal, broadening potential offtake options for the refinery.
COB has also begun evaluating battery black mass as an alternative feedstock. Samples sourced from Australian producers are undergoing leaching studies targeting cobalt, nickel, and manganese, with lithium recovery planned for a later stage.
The company is in advanced discussions to secure regular black mass supply, supporting circular economy ambitions in the critical minerals sector.
“The recent milestones accelerate progress toward a final investment decision for the Kwinana Cobalt Refinery, enhancing confidence in its commercial potential,” COB chief executive officer Andrew Tong said.
The KCR project remains on track for a final investment decision by the end of 2025, following key milestones such as an operating permit application, binding agreements with partners Iwatani and Glencore, and the appointment of engineering partner Tetra Tech Coffey.
The refinery aims to produce battery-grade cobalt sulphate and high-purity cobalt metal, providing flexibility to meet evolving market demands.
Separately, the COB’s Broken Hill Cobalt Project received a three-year extension to its Major Project Status, reinforcing its national significance. Recent optimisation of the kiln circuit, using a new vertical tube kiln, targets reductions in operating and capital costs by improving heat transfer and mineral conversion efficiency.
According to Tong, these developments position COB to strengthen Australia’s critical minerals supply chain and respond to growing global demand for cobalt.
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