5E Advanced Materials Unveils Massive 61% Borate Resource Boost at Fort Cady

Resource Upgrade Highlights

5E Advanced Materials has revealed a substantial increase in the mineral resources at its Fort Cady Project in California’s Mojave Desert. The company reported a 61% rise in measured and indicated borate resources, from 17.5 million tons to 28.3 million tons, alongside a 54% increase in lithium carbonate equivalent resources. This upgrade establishes Fort Cady as home to the largest measured and indicated borate resources in the United States, underscoring its strategic importance in the critical minerals sector.

The measured boric acid resources alone surged by 170%, reflecting a significant expansion in the highest confidence category of mineral resources. Lithium resources, a valuable by-product, also saw a notable increase, enhancing the project's overall value proposition.

Strategic and Operational Implications

With an implied resource life of 217 years based on the first phase production target of 130,000 short tons per annum, Fort Cady offers long-term supply security for boron and lithium. This longevity is particularly relevant given boron's recent designation as a U.S. critical mineral, highlighting the project’s potential to anchor a domestic supply chain for these essential materials.

5E’s CEO, Paul Weibel, emphasized the milestone as a key step toward establishing the company as America’s next leading boron supplier. The company’s control over 28 federal lode claims covering the entire mineralized area further strengthens its tenure and operational certainty.

Technical and Regulatory Context

The resource estimates were prepared under the SEC’s S-K 1300 reporting standards, which differ from the JORC Code commonly used in Australia. While the resources are robust, they are not yet classified as mineral reserves, meaning economic viability has not been fully demonstrated. The company confirmed that the project’s previously disclosed economics and production targets remain unchanged, pending further evaluation.

Importantly, the mineralization is amenable to in-situ leaching, a mining method that could reduce environmental impact and operational costs. The company’s recent staking and recording of federal lode claims ensure mineral tenure aligns with regulatory requirements, a critical factor for advancing development.

Looking Ahead

This resource upgrade positions 5E Advanced Materials to capitalize on growing demand for borates and lithium in industries ranging from renewable energy to defense. The company’s focus on vertical integration and domestic supply aligns well with government priorities on critical minerals and supply chain resilience.

Investors will be watching closely for upcoming filings, including the detailed Form 8-K disclosure, and progress toward final investment decisions and offtake agreements that could unlock further value from this expanded resource base.