Chinalco’s research and development efforts have facilitated the expansion of its production capacity and reduced unit production costs. Chinalco has successfully commercialised various research and development initiatives. Since 2001, Chinalco has invested millions of dollars in R&D (nearly RMB 2.5 billion (US$366 million) in 2007) and applied for 3,411 patents (1,411 of which have been granted to date), including some critical technologies for refining and smelting processes for aluminum, copper, magnesium and titanium. Chinalco is well respected throughout the mining industry for its industry-leading technologies and continuous efforts to improve upon operational practices through the use of technology.
Two of Chinalco's most successful self-developed technologies and processes are the Ore-dressing Bayer Process and the 400kA High-amperage Electrolytic Aluminum Cell. Chinalco’s patented aluminum alloys and titanium alloys have been selected as key materials for use in the production of a number of products including Long March rockets, Shenzhou Spacecraft and the Chang’e-1 Satellite.
