The quicklime industry is experiencing a period of robust growth, driven by its essential role in various sectors such as metallurgy, construction, and environmental management. Quicklime, or calcium oxide, is indispensable in steel manufacturing, where it serves as a fluxing agent to remove impurities, thereby enhancing the quality of the final product. The global quicklime market is projected to reach approximately USD 57.6 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8% from 2024 to 2030.
In the construction industry, quicklime is a critical component in producing building materials like cement and concrete. Its properties improve the durability and stability of structures, making it a preferred choice for modern construction projects. The increasing emphasis on sustainable building practices further boosts the demand for quicklime, as it contributes to environmentally friendly construction solutions.
Environmental applications also significantly contribute to the rising demand for quicklime. It is extensively used in water treatment processes to neutralise acidity and remove impurities, ensuring safe and clean water supply. Additionally, quicklime plays a vital role in flue gas treatment, aiding industries in reducing harmful emissions and complying with environmental regulations.
Firering Strategic Minerals plc, an AIM-quoted resource company, is strategically positioning itself within this thriving market. Through its Limeco project in Zambia, Firering is advancing towards commencing phased production of quicklime, with the first of eight kilns set to be commissioned in late 2024. The project aims to produce between 600 to 800 tonnes of quicklime per day, capitalising on the growing demand in the copper and construction industries across Africa.
With a substantial historical investment exceeding USD 100 million, the Limeco project is well-equipped to become a significant supplier in the quicklime market. The latest JORC Code Compliant Mineral Resource Estimate for Limeco totals 145.2 million tonnes at 95.7% CaCO₃, providing for over 50 years of potential quicklime production.
Firering’s strategic initiatives align with the positive trends in the quicklime sector, positioning the company to effectively meet the increasing demand across various industries. By leveraging its resources and expertise, Firering is set to play a pivotal role in supplying high-quality quicklime to support industrial and environmental applications globally.
