Ionic Rare Earths’ (ASX: IXR) wholly owned subsidiary Ionic Technologies is on track to complete what it touts as a “first-of-kind Product Carbon Footprint analysis” in partnership with software, consultancy, research, and database solutions firm Minviro.
The partnership is for IonicRE’s proposed Belfast magnet recycling plant.
IonicRE says the study is expected to show the benefits of Ionic Technologies’ patented technology and its smaller carbon footprint compared to conventional REO production, benefitting OEMs’ push for a sustainable, traceable and secure ex-China rare earths supply.
The study is also expected to validate that the CO2 impact case for magnet recycling to separated magnet REOs using technology the company deems is compelling, demonstrating environmental and sustainability benefits.
IonicRE’s Managing Director Tim Harrison says this complements the geopolitical drivers and secure supply chain requirements for alternative REO production in Western markets.
Utilising ISO-compliant Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology, the new study follows the completion of a Feasibility Study that demonstrates the financial and environmental sustainability of Ionic Technologies’ proposed commercial REO facility in Belfast, UK.
IonicRE will now work in collaboration with Minviro to conclude the LCA. The study will undergo a strict peer review process before IonicRE publishes findings, including comparator data for two existing REO supply routes.
Executive Chairman Brett Lynch says the Product Carbon Footprint Study “yet again demonstrates that IonicRE is leading the way in decarbonising net-zero technologies”.
“Our intention to scale-up the technology rapidly is bolstered by the early indications of this study. As more global focus is directed towards the CO2 impact of technology, we will soon be able to quantify just how OEMs and magnet supply chain companies can reduce their CO2 impacts by making progressive decisions around REO sourcing, specifically sourcing REOs from recycling,” Lynch says.
The peer review findings are set for release in three phases – mid-February (confirmation of assessment completion); late-February (broad carbon reduction figures); and post-peer review (full publication of peer-reviewed sustainability insights).
Harrison adds that the pending completion of the LCA study will provide validation of the significant CO2 benefit that Ionic Technologies’ patented magnet recycling and separated magnet REO recovery process demonstrates.
“We are very pleased to be working with Minviro, a global leader in peer-reviewed, ISO certified studies, utilising LCA methodologies to accurately quantify the CO2 impact of technologies,” says Harrison.
“As more net-zero technology, including EVs and offshore wind turbines is adopted globally, manufacturers are looking to quantify and actively manage the CO2 impact of their supply chain. Substantially more magnet REO demand, and therefore more CO2 impact, is now anticipated from emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and robotics.
“By conducting such a targeted study, Ionic Technologies will be able to accurately inform and influence offtakers so that considered quantification around the CO2 impact of our products in their supply chains can be made.”
Write to Adam Orlando at Mining.com.au
Images: IonicRE
