Aquirian Secures $4.2M Contract for Eco-Friendly Collar Keeper® Manufacturing
Aquirian’s subsidiary TBS Mining Solutions has secured a $4.2 million binding term sheet with Papyrus Australia to manufacture biodegradable Collar Keeper® products, marking a significant step towards greener mining operations.
- Binding term sheet worth approximately $4.2 million over three years
- Manufacture of biodegradable Collar Keeper® products in Adelaide
- Supports Aquirian’s Bootless Bench® vision for sustainable mining
- Agreement includes option to extend for an additional three years
- Manufacturing facility expected to be operational by Q4 FY26
A New Chapter in Sustainable Mining
Aquirian Limited (ASX – AQN) has taken a decisive step forward in sustainable mining innovation through its wholly owned subsidiary, TBS Mining Solutions. The company announced a binding term sheet with Papyrus Australia Limited (ASX – PPY) to manufacture and supply biodegradable Collar Keeper® products, valued at approximately $4.2 million over three years, with an option to extend for another three years.
This development aligns closely with Aquirian’s Bootless Bench® vision, which aims to enhance blast preparation efficiency while reducing environmental impact. The biodegradable Collar Keeper® is designed to stabilise blastholes during drilling and blasting operations, a critical process in mining that traditionally relies on plastic components. By replacing these with a biodegradable alternative, Aquirian is addressing both operational efficiency and sustainability concerns.
Strategic Partnership and Manufacturing Plans
The manufacturing of these next-generation Collar Keeper® products will take place at Papyrus’s commercial production facility in Adelaide, expected to be commissioned in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2026. Papyrus is known for its innovative use of agricultural waste to produce eco-friendly materials, making it a fitting partner for this initiative.
Greg Patching, Managing Director of Aquirian, emphasised the significance of this partnership, highlighting the product’s role in reducing plastic waste and improving on-bench labour safety. The biodegradable Collar Keeper® not only eliminates the need for post-blast retrieval but also integrates seamlessly with TBS’s existing product range, offering mining operators a greener and smarter alternative without disrupting current workflows.
Looking Ahead
While the term sheet is binding, the parties have committed to negotiating definitive agreements by the end of October 2025. The successful commissioning of the Adelaide facility and the subsequent production ramp-up will be critical milestones to watch. If executed as planned, this deal could set a new benchmark for responsible blasthole quality management and sustainable mining practices.
For Aquirian, this agreement represents more than just a commercial contract; it is a tangible manifestation of its commitment to innovation that balances operational performance with environmental stewardship.
Bottom Line?
Aquirian’s biodegradable Collar Keeper® deal signals a promising shift towards greener mining, but execution risks remain ahead.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the definitive agreements be finalised by the October 2025 deadline?
- How quickly can Papyrus’s Adelaide facility ramp up production to meet demand?
- What measurable environmental benefits will the biodegradable Collar Keeper® deliver in operational settings?
