Aurubis opens innovative ASPA recycling plant in Belgium

Today, multimetal producer Aurubis celebrated the go-live of the ASPA plant at its site in Beerse (Belgium). “Fully developed in-house, this new state-of-the-art hydrometallurgical process, ASPA, is another prime example of Aurubis’ innovative strength. We are pioneering sustainable multimetal production and are now taking recycling to the next level,” COO Multimetal Recyling Inge Hofkens stated.

Greater efficiency in metals recycling

The ASPA facility will process anode sludge, a valuable intermediate product from electrolytic copper refining produced at the Aurubis recycling sites in Beerse and Lünen (Germany). The new process delivers two major benefits: the faster extraction of more precious metals as well as the full recovery of tin from the anode sludge.

With this investment of around € 33 million, the company is committing to further developing Aurubis Beerse and to connecting the European sites even more strongly than before. In doing so, Aurubis is creating even more synergies by optimizing the intermediate material flows. “I am proud to be opening the new ASPA facility today; it is a true achievement for the Aurubis Beerse team after years of dedication. The successful start-up of ASPA directly results from the expertise and metallurgical know-how but also from team spirit and a profound commitment to the circular economy,” Managing Director of Aurubis Beerse Dirk Vandenberghe said.

Strategic growth across the globe

ASPA is one of the major investment projects in the Aurubis strategic roadmap, strengthening its position as one of the most efficient and sustainable integrated smelter networks worldwide. “Metal recycling is a growth area for Aurubis, and Aurubis is increasingly distinguishing itself as an essential cornerstone in the European circular economy. To emphasize our ambitions: In addition to ASPA, we are also opening a completely new recycling site in Georgia, USA, and another recycling plant to recover valuable metals like nickel and copper at the Olen site in Belgium,” COO Inge Hofkens said.

With ASPA, Aurubis is creating about 20 additional jobs in Beerse, where around 500 colleagues work in total. “With the realization of the ASPA project, Aurubis Beerse is living up to its intentions; with an eye to the future, it is ensuring the more efficient use of our raw materials and a more environmentally friendly approach. A great and sustainable investment,” Mayor of the municipality of Beerse Bart Craane concluded.