Ark Mines (ASX:AHK) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with an existing technology provider to conduct a processing trial for its monazite ore sourced at the Sandy Mitchell Rare Earths Project in Queensland.
The processing trial will crack monazite ore in order to recover thorium and other rare earth elements using low-cost technology.
The small-scale trial will begin this month to deliver a phase one chemical analysis and separation chemistry-proving campaign across the three target materials.
Workstreams will include comprehensive analytical characterisation, radionuclide profiling, reagent optimisation, and separation chemistry under one program to support the company’s processing readiness and de-risk downstream development.
The partners intend to progress the development of a scaled pilot plant program together after the completion of test programs.
Ark Managing Director Ben Emery describes the Sandy Mitchell Project as 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 says.
“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.”
Ark Mines is a mineral explorer focused on its four projects in Northern Queensland.
As reported by Mining.com.au, the company recently listed on the OTCQB Venture Market to improve access for US-based traders.
Write to Maddison Elliott at Mining.com.au
Images: Ark Mines
