Pinnacle kicks off test work in search of green metakaolin at Bobalong

Pinnacle is carrying out kaolin upgrade test work to determine the feasibility of producing ‘green’ metakaolin using material sourced from its Bobalong kaolin project.

Metakaolin is a highly reactive pozzolanic material which can be added as a Supplementary Cementitious Material (SCM) to Portland cement in order to improve its durability, strength, and workability, while at the same time reducing its carbon dioxide footprint, curing time, and the likelihood of concrete cancer.

The potential to reduce emissions is of significant interest as cement production is one of the highest-emitting industrial sectors, responsible for approximately 8% of global CO2 emissions.

Pinnacle Minerals (ASX:PIM) has engaged boutique consultancies Fremantle Metallurgy and Real Material Solutions to undertake and manage the test work.

“Undertaking this body of work exemplifies how Pinnacle Minerals is investing in a green future and expanding the company’s IP base,” managing director Nic Matich said.

“Metakaolin has the potential to radically alter the concrete industry by reducing its carbon footprint.

“With the global push for greener technologies there will potentially be a time where the use of metakaolin is mandated by governments worldwide, resulting in a potentially lucrative market for Pinnacle”.

High demand

SCM demand is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 7.46% or by US$ 8.1 billion over 2020-2025 due to growing demand from the Asia-Pacific region.

It comes as the supply of traditional pozzolans used as SCMs in concrete dwindle due to supply chain issues such as the shut-down of power stations, which are a major supplier of silica flume.

This article was developed in collaboration with Pinnacle Minerals (ASX:PIM), a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.