Ark Mines Targets 2026 with Enhanced Processing and Resource Expansion at Sandy Mitchell
Ark Mines has launched a detailed metallurgical improvement program at its Sandy Mitchell Rare Earth and Heavy Minerals project, aiming to refine processing techniques and expand its resource base. The work supports a Pre-Feasibility Study due early next year.
- IHC Mining begins advanced metallurgical testing on 2,225kg bulk sample
- Focus on enhancing beneficiation and mineral separation processes
- Results to feed into detailed Pre-Feasibility Study scheduled for early 2026
- Concurrent drilling planned to expand existing Measured Mineral Resource
- Project targets production of rare earth oxides, zircon, titanium oxides, and garnet
Metallurgical Testing Kicks Off at Sandy Mitchell
Ark Mines Limited (ASX – AHK) has initiated a comprehensive metallurgical improvement program at its flagship Sandy Mitchell Rare Earth and Heavy Minerals project in North Queensland. Partnering with IHC Mining, a specialist Australian mining services firm, the company aims to refine its beneficiation and mineral separation processes to enhance product quality and operational efficiency.
The program leverages a substantial 2,225-kilogram bulk sample collected during last year’s drilling campaign. This sample will undergo detailed testing to better characterise the feed material and inform an optimized flowsheet design. The ultimate goal is to improve the extraction and processing of rare earth elements and heavy minerals, which are critical inputs for advanced technologies worldwide.
Strategic Importance for Project Development
The metallurgical results will be integrated into the ongoing Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS), expected to be completed in early 2026. This study will also incorporate data from a planned drilling program aimed at significantly expanding the existing Measured Mineral Resource, which currently stands at 71.8 million tonnes at 1,732.7 ppm Monazite Equivalent.
Ark Mines’ Managing Director, Ben Emery, emphasised the timing and strategic value of this work, stating that the project is positioned to deliver a large-scale rare earth mine within two years. The advanced test work is designed to validate low-cost downstream processing routes, converting mineral sands into a suite of valuable products including rare earth oxides; particularly magnet and critical rare earths; zircon with hafnium, titanium oxides, and garnet.
Building on a Strong Foundation
This metallurgical program builds on previous studies, including a 2024 expert review by Harrier Project Management and a Scoping Study confirming the commercial viability of Sandy Mitchell. The project’s high-grade rare earth content, with up to 25% of total rare earth oxides comprising neodymium and praseodymium, places it among Australia’s most enriched deposits.
Alongside metallurgical advancements, the recommencement of drilling after the Northern Australia wet season aims to expand the resource base further, supported by a recent $1.5 million capital raise. These developments collectively underpin Ark Mines’ strategy to advance Sandy Mitchell towards production readiness.
Looking Ahead
With IHC Mining’s expertise and state-of-the-art facilities, Ark Mines is well-positioned to refine its processing approach and strengthen its commercial case. The coming months will be critical as metallurgical results emerge and drilling progresses, setting the stage for the detailed PFS and eventual project development decisions.
Bottom Line?
Ark Mines’ metallurgical and drilling advances at Sandy Mitchell mark a pivotal step toward unlocking a high-value rare earth operation.
Questions in the middle?
- What specific improvements in recovery rates or processing costs will the metallurgical program achieve?
- How much can the Measured Mineral Resource realistically expand with the upcoming drilling?
- What are the potential market impacts if Sandy Mitchell delivers rare earths at scale within two years?