Locksley Resources has taken a significant step toward securing diversified antimony supply for the U.S. market by entering a non-binding agreement with EV Resources, supporting its proprietary DeepSolv™ processing technology and domestic critical minerals strategy.
- Non-binding Heads of Agreement with EV Resources for antimony ore supply
- Strategic investment of A$0.75 million contingent on binding agreement and approvals
- Supports development of DeepSolv™ processing technology with Rice University
- Aims to strengthen U.S. critical minerals independence and defense supply chains
- Expands ore feedstock beyond Mojave Desert Antimony Mine to include North American sources
Strategic Partnership to Secure Antimony Supply
Locksley Resources Limited (ASX:LKY) has announced a pivotal move to bolster its antimony supply chain by entering into a non-binding Heads of Agreement with EV Resources Limited (ASX:EVR). This agreement aims to secure beneficiated antimony ore from EV Resources’ Los Lirios operations, complementing Locksley’s own Desert Antimony Mine development in Mojave, California. The partnership is designed to underpin the commercial rollout of Locksley’s proprietary DeepSolv™ processing technology, developed in collaboration with Rice University.
Advancing U.S. Critical Minerals Independence
Antimony is a critical mineral essential for defense, energy, and semiconductor applications, yet the United States currently lacks domestic production. Locksley’s strategy addresses this supply gap by integrating multiple North American ore sources, reducing reliance on foreign imports, particularly from China. The agreement with EV Resources not only diversifies ore feedstock but also accelerates the availability of defense-grade and energy-grade antimony products within the U.S., aligning with national security priorities.
DeepSolv™ Technology and Market Potential
The DeepSolv™ solvometallurgical process represents a cutting-edge approach to antimony refining, promising enhanced efficiency and resilience by validating processing across varied ore types. Access to EV Resources’ ore will enable Locksley to conduct comprehensive testwork and downstream validation, crucial for scaling the technology. This positions Locksley to tap into the estimated USD $1 billion domestic U.S. antimony market, showcasing the company’s ambition to become a key player in reshaping North American critical mineral supply chains.
Investment and Future Outlook
Contingent on finalizing a binding Ore Sales Agreement and securing EV Resources shareholder approval, Locksley plans a strategic investment of A$0.75 million in EV Resources. This financial commitment underscores the mutual benefits anticipated from the partnership, including a reliable supply of antimony concentrate for Locksley and a long-term customer for EV Resources. The collaboration also facilitates priority access to ore samples for ongoing research at Rice University, further strengthening the technical foundation of the DeepSolv™ process.
Positioning for Growth in a Critical Sector
Locksley’s move reflects a broader industry trend emphasizing domestic sourcing and processing of critical minerals. With its Mojave Project strategically located near established mining operations and supported by innovative technology, Locksley is well placed to contribute to U.S. economic and defense security objectives. The company’s integrated mine-to-market approach, combining exploration, processing innovation, and strategic partnerships, signals a promising trajectory in the evolving critical minerals landscape.
Bottom Line?
Locksley’s evolving partnerships and technology development mark a decisive step toward securing a resilient, domestic antimony supply chain for the U.S.
Questions in the middle?
- When will the binding Ore Sales Agreement with EV Resources be finalized and approved?
- How will DeepSolv™ perform across diverse ore types in large-scale processing trials?
- What are the potential regulatory or market challenges in scaling U.S. antimony production?