First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has temporarily shut down its Ravensthorpe nickel operation in Western Australia due to a “structural failure” in the atmospheric leach tank, The Australian has reported.
Image credit: flickr user: Kingharro
A First Quantum spokesman said the company was investigating the cause of the rupture, adding that the resulting chemical spill was contained in the plant’s protected area.
The Vancouver-based company confirmed that all personnel had been accounted for and that no injuries had been reported.
The spokesman also said that there will be no adverse environmental effects caused by the chemical spill.
First Quantum ranks second behind BHP Billiton in Australian production of nickel, with forecasted production of 36,000 to 38,000 metric tons of nickel for this calendar year.
The company acquired Ravensthorpe in late 2011, two years after previous owner, BHP Billiton, shut it down because of low prices and processing difficulties.
