ABx Group Achieves High Rare Earth Retention in Tasmania Project

What's Happening?

ABx Group has successfully retained over 98% of rare earths from its Deep Leads Project in northern Tasmania. The company identified a 'sweet spot' at a potential of hydrogen (pH) level of 6, which facilitated the removal of aluminium impurities. The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) conducted impurity removal tests on rare earth enriched leach solutions from a 100kg bulk sample. The high extraction rates during leaching and retention during impurity removal suggest favorable process economics for producing a mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC) sample. ABx plans to finalize the process conditions for impurity removal and produce the MREC sample within the current quarter, with results and samples to be shared with prospective customers.

Why It's Important?

The successful retention of rare earths is significant for ABx Group as it enhances the economic viability of their project. Rare earth elements like dysprosium and terbium are crucial for various high-tech applications, including electronics and renewable energy technologies. The high retention rates and low impurity levels make the project attractive to potential customers, especially given the high market prices for these elements. The project also positions ABx as a competitive non-China source of rare earths, which is strategically important given global supply chain concerns and the premium prices for non-China sources.

What's Next?

ABx Group is set to finalize the process conditions for impurity removal and produce the MREC sample within the current quarter. The company anticipates strong interest from potential customers due to the high dysprosium-terbium content and favorable extraction rates. The ongoing development of the Deep Leads Project could lead to increased production capacity and further optimization of rare earth extraction processes. ABx's focus on rare earths, fluorine, and bauxite continues to attract attention in the resources sector.

Beyond the Headlines

The development of the Deep Leads Project by ABx Group highlights the growing importance of rare earths in global supply chains. As demand for these elements increases, projects like this could play a crucial role in diversifying supply sources away from China, which currently dominates the market. The environmental and geopolitical implications of rare earth mining and processing are significant, as countries seek to secure stable and sustainable sources for these critical materials.