RareX (ASX:REE) has confirmed the potential to produce phosphate Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) and phosphate mineral concentrate for direct-application agricultural fertiliser through testwork on samples collected at the Cummins Range Rare Earths and Phosphate Project in Western Australia.
Results from initial phosphorus bioavailability tests on DSO and phosphate mineral concentrate, both of which are anticipated co-products with rare earths from Cummins range, show the material possesses ‘very high’ bioavailability that is 2-5 times better than what has been classified as ‘high’ bioavailable rock phosphate by industry standard.
The company says this has unlocked a variety of development scenarios for Cummins Range including producing a DSO product initially which would require low levels of processing and capital to produce a readily saleable product, as well as producing a ‘premium-grade’ phosphate concentrate product for direct-application fertiliser.
Commenting on the results, RareX Managing Director Jeremy Robinson says: “This is a standout result for the Cummins Range Rare Earths and Phosphate project as it delivers outstanding flexibility for the projects development, with the potential to commence with an ultra-low capital, high-margin starter project producing organic direct-application phosphate fertiliser, before moving into a longer-term rare earths and phosphate concentrate project.
The best comparison for the starter project would be to a DSO iron ore operation, it would literally be dig-and-ship. Direct fertiliser deposits are globally scarce, making Cummins Range a rare development.”
“Direct fertiliser deposits are globally scarce, making Cummins Range a rare development”
RareX reports tests on the phosphate co-product are being undertaken in parallel with rare earth metallurgical testwork programs, which are also delivering promising results. An update on the rare earth metallurgy will be made in due course.
The company also reports it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with independent agricultural cooperative OrdCo to develop a phosphate product roadmap to support the Kununurra agricultural sector with a portion of phosphate product mix from Cummins Range. RareX notes these latest testwork results support this component of work being completed under the MOU.
Results from the testwork will be integrated with pit optimisations being prepared for a new block model for Cummins Range expected to be announced in April following the completion of an updated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE). This new MRE is expected to be ‘considerably’ larger than the current estimate.
RareX is a Perth-based rare earths company committed to becoming a near-term producer of neodymium and praseodymium. The company is focused on developing its flagship Cummins Range Rare Earths and Phosphate Project near Halls Creek.
Images: RareX Limited
