What's Happening?
ANSTO has initiated the production of ABx Group's first mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC) product using a 50kg sample from a 100kg bulk sample. This production is part of ABx's program to create a saleable
MREC product from its Deep Leads ionic adsorption clay rare earth project in Tasmania. The product is intended for downstream refining to produce rare earth oxides, metals, and magnets essential for electric vehicle motors and clean-energy technologies. ABx has conducted a formal processing options analysis and engaged ANSTO for initial column leach tests, with results expected by early 2026. Recent tests showed successful impurity removal, maintaining high levels of rare earth elements in solution, which is crucial for product quality.
Why It's Important?
The production of MREC products is significant for the rare earth industry, particularly in the context of clean-energy technologies. Rare earth elements like dysprosium and terbium are critical for manufacturing components in electric vehicles and wind turbines. The high extraction rates and low impurity levels achieved by ABx suggest a cost-effective production process, which could enhance the competitiveness of non-China sources of rare earths. This development may attract interest from potential customers and partners, given the high market prices for rare earth elements and the strategic importance of diversifying supply chains away from China.
What's Next?
ABx plans to distribute the MREC product to potential customers and offtake partners for evaluation. The company is also preparing to conduct column leach tests to confirm the high extraction rates observed in previous tests. These steps are crucial for validating the commercial viability of the product and securing partnerships for further development. Additionally, ABx's memorandum of understanding with Ucore Rare Metals could facilitate the establishment of rare earth processing facilities in North America, potentially expanding the market reach and impact of ABx's products.
Beyond the Headlines
The successful production of MREC products by ABx could have broader implications for the rare earth industry, particularly in terms of supply chain diversification. As geopolitical tensions and trade dynamics influence global markets, the ability to produce high-quality rare earth products outside of China could shift industry standards and encourage investment in alternative sources. This development also highlights the importance of technological innovation in resource extraction, which could lead to more sustainable and efficient practices in the mining sector.
