How Viridis Sparked Brazil’s First Local Rare Earth Oxide Supply to Magnet Makers
Viridis Mining and Minerals, through its joint venture Viridion, has delivered the first batch of high-purity rare earth oxides recycled from Brazilian magnets to Latin America’s only magnet manufacturer, marking a key step in establishing a domestic rare earth supply chain.
- First delivery of recycled Nd, Pr, Dy, Tb oxides to CIT SENAI ITR in Brazil
- Oxides sourced from end-of-life magnets in Brazil, processed with advanced hydrometallurgy in Belfast
- Supports Brazil’s emerging magnet manufacturing and rare earth supply independence
- Aligned with Brazilian government funding programs totaling over US$1.4 billion
- Viridis’ Colossus Project positioned as lowest-cost rare earth producer globally
A Milestone for Latin America’s Rare Earth Industry
Viridis Mining and Minerals Limited has announced a significant breakthrough in the rare earth sector with the delivery of the first locally sourced rare earth oxides to CIT SENAI ITR, Brazil’s sole magnet manufacturing facility. This delivery, executed through Viridis’ joint venture Viridion with Ionic Rare Earths, represents a pioneering step in creating a fully integrated rare earth supply chain within Brazil and Latin America.
The rare earth oxides, neodymium (Nd), praseodymium (Pr), dysprosium (Dy), and terbium (Tb), were recovered from end-of-life magnets primarily sourced from decommissioned MRI machines and wind turbines in Brazil. These magnets underwent advanced hydrometallurgical separation at Ionic Technologies’ facility in Belfast before being shipped back to Brazil for use in magnet production trials.
Strategic Importance Amid Global Supply Chain Shifts
This milestone arrives at a critical juncture as China tightens its rare earth export controls, prompting global efforts to diversify supply chains. Viridion’s ability to supply high-purity rare earth oxides locally positions Brazil as a strategic player in the global rare earth market, reducing dependence on Chinese sources. The initiative aligns with Brazil’s broader industrial ambitions, supported by substantial government funding programs from BNDES and FINEP, which have earmarked approximately US$1.4 billion to develop critical mineral supply chains and innovation centers.
Viridis’ Colossus Project, underpinning this supply chain, boasts some of the world’s lowest production costs for rare earths, even amid cyclical price lows. This economic advantage, combined with cutting-edge recycling and separation technologies, enhances Viridis’ competitive edge and readiness to capitalize on emerging market opportunities.
Towards a Circular and Sustainable Rare Earth Economy
The delivered oxides will undergo lab-scale testing at CIT SENAI ITR to assess their suitability for alloy and magnet production. This process is a critical proof-of-concept for Viridion’s vision of a circular mine-to-magnet supply chain, incorporating recycling of waste streams and fostering sustainable manufacturing practices. The MagBras Project, supported by innovation funding, further underscores the commitment to building a low-carbon, innovation-driven industrial ecosystem in Brazil.
Viridis is advancing its pre-feasibility study and environmental licensing, with plans to establish pilot refining and recycling facilities strategically located near the Colossus Project. These developments aim to scale up domestic magnet production to 100 tonnes annually by 2026, supporting Brazil’s ambitions to become a rare earth processing hub outside China.
Looking Ahead
With strong institutional backing, proven technology partnerships, and a clear strategic roadmap, Viridis and Viridion are poised to lead Latin America’s rare earth industry transformation. The coming months will be pivotal as technical assessments conclude and funding opportunities are pursued, potentially accelerating project timelines and market entry.
Bottom Line?
Viridis’ delivery marks the dawn of a new rare earth era in Latin America, but the true test lies in scaling production and securing long-term market footholds.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the recycled rare earth oxides meet the performance standards required for high-end magnet applications?
- How quickly can Viridis secure funding and regulatory approvals to scale up production facilities?
- What impact will Brazil’s emerging rare earth supply chain have on global market dynamics and China’s dominance?