Ark Mines Ltd. has partnered with a processing technology provider to undertake a trial to crack its monazite ore from the Sandy Mitchells rare earths project in Queensland.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) establishes a framework for both companies to collaborate, using a proven, low-cost process to recover thorium and other rare earth elements.
Ark Managing Director Ben Emery said the Sandy Mitchell Project is a unique asset in Australia’s rare earths sources.
“This trial has the potential to further de-risk Sandy Mitchell by establishing processing options that we can apply to development of the project,” Emery said.
“This MoU has been executed at a pivotal time for the rare earths and critical minerals sector, with Western governments and the mining industry focused on securing new, credible supply chains.
“Subject to the successful outcomes of this trial and other activities we are running in parallel, the Sandy Mitchell Project is well positioned to contribute to the future supply of these strategic metals.”
The trial will commence in February, comprising a small-scale program targeting the recovery of thorium, neodymium and praseodymium.
The program will deliver an integrated chemical analysis and separate chemistry proving campaign across all three minerals.
Thorium, neodymium and praseodymium are increasingly viewed as strategic critical minerals due to their roles in energy security, manufacturing and defence.
Neodymium and praseodymium are used in wind turbines, electric vehicles and military systems, while thorium has gained renewed interest as a potential future nuclear fuel.
The partners also plan to jointly progress the development of a scaled pilot plant program to support downstream process validation and to facilitate engagement with potential end-users and offtake partners.
