Aurubis opens Complex Recycling Hamburg plant for strategic metals

Project overview

Aurubis inaugurated the Complex Recycling Hamburg (CRH) plant after around two-and-a-half years of construction. The facility integrates multiple smelting processes in a single unit, allowing combined processing of materials that contain copper, lead and sulfur. The project is positioned as a major growth initiative under the company’s “Aurubis Performance 2030” strategy.

Capacity and technology

CRH will allow Aurubis to treat more than 30,000 additional tonnes of recycling material per year and significantly larger volumes of high-value smelter intermediates. The plant recovers copper, lead, precious metals and produces sulfuric acid. At its core is a specially engineered converter that processes batches of around 45 tonnes at temperatures up to 1,400°C.

Environmental standards and automation

Approximately one third of the €190 million investment was allocated to air pollution control measures. The plant sets a benchmark in efficient, environmentally friendly multimetal production and is highly automated to ensure efficient staffing and strong health and safety performance.

Strategic impact and funding

The €190 million investment is expected to deliver a positive financial contribution once fully ramped up, keeping more material and value within Aurubis’ smelter network and enhancing production resilience. CRH received EU funding and an investment loan from the European Investment Bank under its raw materials strategy, directly contributing to objectives of the EU Critical Raw Materials Act.