Saudi Arabia’s Ma’aden has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Metso Outotec and Thyssenkrupp under which the three entities will develop a novel circular concept to improve the sustainability of Ma’aden’s phosphate operations.

According to a statement from Metso Outotec, “the aim is to design a groundbreaking integrated complex for processing of phosphogypsum, a waste by-product from phosphoric acid production, to reduce the amount of solid waste and allow the capture of CO2 emissions”.

The new circular process will be incorporated into Ma’aden’s phosphate operations to support the company in achieving their ambitious sustainability goals aligned with the Kingdom’s objectives.

Hannes Storch, vice-president for Metals and Chemicals Processing at Metso Outotec, said: “We are honoured to be part of this unique initiative. Decarbonisation and circularity are relevant for all industries, and the new concept to be developed for phosphogypsum processing will be a major step forward in the fertiliser industry, contributing to efforts limiting global warming.”

Metso Outotec said it will use its extensive know-how and experience in the field of fluid bed and sulfuric acid solutions for the development of this process.

The project is another one for Finland’s Metso Outotec in its commitment “to limiting global warming to 1.5°C with Science Based Targets”.