Nickel
A naturally occurring metallic element, Nickel is a key ingredient in stainless steel, and major component in the lithium-ion batteries that power electric vehicles.
BHP has announced that the Nickel West operations and West Musgrave project (Western Australia Nickel) will be temporarily suspended from October 2024. BHP intends to review the decision to temporarily suspend Western Australia Nickel by February 2027.
What is nickel?
Nickel is a silvery white, naturally occurring metallic element with a light golden tinge. There are two main types of nickel deposits, laterite and sulphide, each requiring a different extraction technique.
Stainless steel
Nickel sulphide and laterite ore are used to make nickel metal, predominantly for the production of stainless steel.
Electric vehicles
Nickel sulphate is a product of nickel sulphide and laterite ore, and is a key ingredient in the batteries that drive electric vehicles.
Versatility
Adding nickel allows stainless steel to become a much more versatile alloy. Because of this, more than two-thirds of all global nickel production is used in stainless steel.
How is nickel used
Nickel and electric cars
Where is nickel found
Nickel sulphide deposits can be found all over the world including Western Australia, South Africa, Canada and Russia. Nickel laterite deposits can be found in countries such as Australia, Indonesia, New Caledonia and the Philippines.