Canadian resource company Mandalay Resources and Betolar Plc have signed a commercial agreement to develop a cementless rockfill solution for the Costerfield gold-antimony mine in Australia. Australia is one of the world's most significant mining countries, with nearly 60% of its export value derived from mineral exports. Consequently, the requirements for cost-effective, technologically advanced, and sustainable solutions in mining are exceptionally high.
Image Credit: Betolar Plc
Betolar’s solution, leveraging on its unique expertise on industrial sidestreams, will replace conventional cement in rockfill solutions in a cost-efficient and CO2-reducing way. The companies aim to commercialize the solution by early 2026, based on the results of a techno-commercial study and piloting.
“With Mandalay Resources, we can demonstrate the added value of our cementless rock filling solution in one of the world's leading mining markets with particularly high requirements. Our solution enables up to 80% lower carbon dioxide emissions compared to a traditional cement-based solution," says Jyri Talja, Betolar's Chief Growth Officer.
“Mandalay Resources is committed to operating in an environmentally responsible manner. Betolar’s new innovative rockfill solution aligns well with our sustainability values and offers a cost competitive way for us to lower carbon emissions", says Dylan Goldhahn, Technical Services Superintendent at Mandalay Resources.
The collaboration with Mandalay Resources paves the way for Betolar to enter the Australian market and further strengthens Betolar's recognition among international players in the mining industry. The mines are significant producers of industrial sidestreams and major cement users, providing Betolar with excellent business opportunities in the circular economy value chain.
"The commercial agreement with Mandalay Resources opens the door to Australia's leading mining market and strengthens our position as a developer of low-carbon solutions for major mining projects. The mining industry globally seeks low-carbon and cost-effective alternatives to cement, and solutions proven successful in Australia will guide mining industry development worldwide," says Tuija Kalpala, President and CEO of Betolar.