Magnum Mining & Exploration has partnered with Homerun Resources to explore innovative, environmentally friendly rare earth element separation technology using ultra-pure silica sand and graphite. This collaboration could reshape processing methods for Magnum’s Brazilian REE projects.
- Binding MoU signed between Magnum and Homerun to test silica-based REE separation
- Focus on ion-exchange chromatography as a lower-footprint alternative to solvent extraction
- Bench-scale testing planned with potential scale-up to pilot trials
- Joint ownership of any intellectual property developed
- Collaboration complements recent positive exploration and testwork results at Brazilian REE sites
A Strategic Partnership in Rare Earths
Magnum Mining & Exploration Limited (ASX, MGU) has taken a significant step toward advancing rare earth element (REE) processing by entering a binding Memorandum of Understanding with Homerun Resources Inc. (TSXV, HMR). The agreement aims to jointly evaluate the use of Homerun’s ultra-pure silica sand and graphite as media for ion-exchange chromatography, a technique that recent scientific studies suggest could offer a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional solvent extraction methods.
Innovating REE Separation Technology
The collaboration focuses on bench-scale testing of Homerun’s high-purity materials to separate REEs from ore samples sourced from Magnum’s Brazilian projects, including promising prospects like Feirinha and Palmares. Ion-exchange chromatography has demonstrated potential to achieve over 99.9% purity for heavy rare earth elements (HREEs) with reduced environmental impact, a critical consideration as demand for sustainable supply chains intensifies amid the global energy transition.
Potential Impact and Intellectual Property
If successful, this initiative could revolutionize how REEs are processed by lowering the carbon footprint and simplifying the separation process. The partnership also includes joint ownership of any intellectual property generated, positioning both companies to benefit from any breakthroughs. Initial testing will be conducted at bench scale, with the possibility of modular pilot-scale expansion if results prove promising.
Context Within the Industry
This MoU aligns with a broader wave of innovation in the REE sector, where companies like Locksley Resources are also pursuing advanced extraction technologies. Magnum’s recent positive exploration results and exceptional leach testwork at ambient temperatures underscore the potential for faster, cleaner routes to market. Meanwhile, Homerun’s expertise in high-purity silica and graphite feedstocks complements Magnum’s resource base, particularly given Brazil’s strategic position as a prospective jurisdiction for developing ex-China REE supply chains.
Looking Ahead
While the MoU is non-binding and contingent on successful testing, it represents a low-cost, high-potential opportunity to accelerate the commercialisation of Magnum’s REE assets. Both companies express optimism about driving innovation that could lower costs and environmental impacts, key factors as global demand for rare earths grows in clean energy and technology sectors.
Bottom Line?
This partnership could unlock cleaner, faster rare earth processing, watch for pilot results to gauge its market impact.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the bench-scale tests confirm the effectiveness of Homerun’s silica and graphite in REE separation?
- How quickly could this technology scale to commercial pilot operations if initial results are positive?
- What competitive advantages might joint IP ownership confer in the evolving REE processing landscape?