Codelco Considers I-Pulse’s Innovative Technology to Enhance…

Codelco, the largest global copper producer, is contemplating collaboration with I-Pulse Inc., led by Robert Friedland, to implement innovative technology that utilizes electrical surges to fracture rocks. This partnership aims to enhance mining efficiencies and reduce environmental impacts, addressing challenges posed by declining ore quality and increasing demand for critical minerals.

Codelco, the largest copper producer globally, is exploring the adoption of innovative technology from Robert Friedland’s I-Pulse Inc., which utilizes electrical surges to fracture rocks. Maximo Pacheco, Codelco’s executive chairman, expressed his positive impressions after visiting I-Pulse’s laboratories in Toulouse, France, stating that both companies are keen to collaborate despite no formal agreement currently in place.

During a telephone conversation, Robert Friedland confirmed ongoing discussions with Codelco regarding the implementation of I-Pulse technology. The firm, which Friedland describes as a private American unicorn, applies pulsed power technology across various sectors, including mining and manufacturing. Its I-ROX project aims to enhance mining operations by reducing energy consumption and emissions, securing investments from notable companies such as BHP Group and a fund linked to Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy Ventures.

I-Pulse’s technology has piqued the interest of several other mining companies, including Rio Tinto Group, Newmont Corp., and Teck Resources Ltd., all of whom have made investments in the venture. Addressing environmental concerns is vital for securing public backing for the expansion of essential metals like copper, particularly for state-owned Codelco as declining ore quality necessitates extracting larger volumes to yield equivalent metal quantities.

Pacheco emphasized the urgent need for new mining methods in response to the escalating demand for critical minerals such as copper and lithium, acknowledging the significant expertise and potential that I-Pulse and Robert Friedland bring to the sector.

In summary, Codelco is considering I-Pulse Inc.’s innovative pulsed power technology to enhance mining efficiencies amidst growing environmental standards. The collaboration could significantly reduce energy consumption and emissions, helping Codelco address challenges such as declining ore quality while responding to the increasing demand for critical minerals. Stakeholders, including Friedland and other major mining companies, express strong support for this potential partnership as it aligns with modern mining practices.

Original Source: financialpost.com