Deep Leads Sample Shows 60-69% Rare Earth Extraction in ABx Tests
ABx Group has sent a 100 kg bulk sample from its Deep Leads rare earths project to ANSTO for production of a high-purity mixed rare earth carbonate, confirming exceptional grades and extraction potential. The milestone underscores ABx’s progress toward low-cost, environmentally friendly rare earth supply.
- 100 kg ionic adsorption clay sample delivered to ANSTO for MREC production
- In-house leach tests show 60-69% extraction rates for critical magnet rare earths
- Deep Leads resource ranks among highest-grade ionic clay deposits globally
- ANSTO expected to produce MREC sample in Q4 2025 with strong customer interest
- ABx holds MoU with Ucore Rare Metals and is negotiating further offtake agreements
Milestone Delivery to ANSTO
ABx Group Limited (ASX, ABX) has taken a significant step forward in developing its Deep Leads rare earths project in Tasmania by delivering a 100 kg bulk sample of ionic adsorption clay rare earth material to the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO). This sample will be used to produce a high-purity mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC), a critical intermediate for rare earth processing and downstream applications.
The Deep Leads project, located 45 km west of Launceston, is notable for its high-grade rare earth content, particularly the heavy rare earths dysprosium and terbium, which are essential for permanent magnets in clean energy technologies. The sample’s delivery marks a key milestone in validating the resource’s commercial potential.
Exceptional Grade and Extraction Performance
ABx’s in-house leach testing on sub-samples from the bulk material demonstrated extraction rates between 60% and 69% for the four magnet rare earth oxides; neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, and terbium; under mild conditions of ambient temperature and pressure with minimal acid. This efficiency suggests a lower-cost, lower-environmental-impact processing route compared to conventional methods.
The Deep Leads resource itself is substantial, with an estimated 89 million tonnes averaging 844 ppm total rare earth oxides (TREO), including a combined 36 ppm of dysprosium and terbium. This concentration is among the highest for ionic clay deposits worldwide, positioning ABx competitively in the rare earths sector.
Strategic Industry Partnerships and Market Interest
ANSTO’s production of the MREC sample is anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2025, with several prospective customers eagerly awaiting the results and samples for their own testing. ABx has already formalized a Memorandum of Understanding with Ucore Rare Metals, a North American rare earth processing company, and is actively engaging with additional potential offtake partners.
These developments reflect growing demand for high-quality rare earth intermediates, especially those enriched in heavy rare earths like dysprosium and terbium, which face acute supply risks globally. ABx’s ability to produce such materials at low cost and with minimal environmental footprint could be a significant differentiator.
Looking Ahead
Beyond sample production, ABx continues to expand its exploration footprint and refine metallurgical processes to optimize rare earth extraction. The company’s integrated approach, combining in-house testing capabilities with external expertise from ANSTO, underscores its commitment to advancing the Deep Leads project efficiently and responsibly.
CEO Mark Cooksey highlighted the company’s confidence in the project’s quality and the enthusiasm from potential customers, signaling a promising path toward commercialisation and supply chain integration.
Bottom Line?
As ANSTO prepares to produce the MREC sample, ABx’s rare earth ambitions hinge on delivering a competitive, sustainable product that meets rising global demand.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the final MREC product meet purity and grade expectations to secure binding offtake agreements?
- How will ABx scale processing while maintaining low environmental impact and cost advantages?
- What is the timeline for expanding the Deep Leads resource beyond the current 29% delineation?
