Indian Rare Earth Limited (IREL) has entered into a partnership with a Kazakhstan-based company to tap into India’s titanium industry potential by leveraging rare-earth minerals found along the coastal areas of the country. The joint venture between IREL (India) Limited and Ust-Kamenogorsk Titanium and Magnesium Plant JSC (UKTMP JSC) aims to process low-grade titanium oxide (TiO2) ilmenite produced in Odisha into titanium slag, which is in high demand in the aerospace and defense sectors.

Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), highlighted that the establishment of this JV plant would facilitate the growth of the titanium slag and chloride pigment industries, which have faced challenges due to a shortage of high-quality TiO2 feedstock. Titanium is known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion, strength, and low density, making it crucial for industries such as aerospace and maritime that require durable materials. Singh noted that titanium slag would serve as the primary feed material for producing titanium sponge, a critical material used in defense, aerospace, and atomic energy industries.

India currently has a limited titanium sponge production capacity of only about 260 tonnes per annum, far below the demand. Under the new venture, UKTMP JSC will supply technology and design for automated furnaces used to produce titanium slag and assist with plant commissioning, while also providing training to Indian plant operators. IREL will ensure the protection of intellectual property rights related to titanium slag production technologies in India.

Besides titanium slag, the JV plant will also produce pig iron, which has commercial value. Singh emphasized that UKTMP JSC’s commitment to purchasing titanium slag would significantly boost India’s export value and create opportunities for the domestic production of titanium pigment and sponge. The project is expected to generate between 8,000 and 10,000 jobs, including those in related industries. The titanium slag produced will meet international standards, allowing India to produce critical materials for defense, aerospace, and atomic energy applications.

Titanium sponge is used in aerospace for components such as aircraft fuselages and engine parts, in defense for armor plating and submarines, and in atomic energy for nuclear reactor shields and heat exchangers.