The MECS technology will treat off-gas from the Chuquicamata copper smelter complex in the Antofagasta region of northern Chile.

Long-time MECS partner SNC-Lavalin will provide detailed engineering, procurement and construction services for the new plants, each of which is expected to produce 2,048t/d of market-grade sulphuric acid. These plants will replace existing facilities that have become environmentally obsolete.

Kirk Schall, executive vice-president of MECS, said: “MECS technology for Chuquicamata will be designed and custom-built to address the site’s specific needs, especially achieving world-class low emissions and high reliability.

“We are delighted that our best-in-class sulphuric acid production technology will help Codelco’s Chuquicamata site realise its short- and long-term emissions targets while supporting the sustainable production of the Antofagasta region’s most valuable resources. MECS looks forward to partnering with both Codelco and SNC through start-up and with Codelco throughout the life of the new facilities.” 

Construction of the two new plants will begin in 2017 and is expected to be completed the following year.