Bayan Targets 90% Rare Earth Recovery with New Colorado School of Mines Licence

Strategic Licence Acquisition

Bayan Mining and Minerals Limited (ASX – BMM) has taken a significant step forward in rare earth element (REE) processing by securing an exclusive global licence from the Colorado School of Mines. This licence covers four patented technologies focused on beneficiation, leaching, and resin-based separation, all developed and tested on ore from the Mountain Pass deposit in California. The proximity of Bayan’s Desert Star Project to Mountain Pass, just 4.5 kilometres away, offers a rare geological synergy that could accelerate Bayan’s path to commercialisation.

Technological Edge and Cost Efficiency

Among the licensed technologies is a novel single-stage hydrochloric acid leach process designed to increase theoretical REE recovery rates from legacy levels of 50–60% to around 90% or more. This simplification of the leaching process not only promises higher yields but also reduces reagent consumption and overall processing costs. Additional patented methods address the beneficiation of ultra-fine materials and complex mineralogy, unlocking value from previously marginal or lower-grade ores, a critical advantage in the U.S. context where accelerating production timelines is a priority.

Alignment with U.S. Critical Minerals Strategy

The licence agreement aligns closely with U.S. government initiatives to secure domestic critical mineral supply chains. Supported in part by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Critical Materials Innovation Hub, these technologies bolster Bayan’s competitive position within the U.S. rare earth value chain. The partnership with the Kroll Institute for Extractive Metallurgy at Colorado School of Mines, led by renowned expert Dr. Corby G. Anderson, provides Bayan with exclusive access to cutting-edge research and technical expertise.

Milestone-Driven Development Roadmap

The agreement outlines a clear, phased development plan spanning from technology integration and bench-scale validation through to pilot plant trials, permitting, financing, and ultimately commercial operations targeted for 2032. Financial terms include modest upfront licence fees, equity issuance to the licensor, and royalties on net sales, structured to support Bayan’s ongoing exploration focus while enabling technology deployment. This measured approach underscores Bayan’s commitment to disciplined growth and long-term value creation.

Desert Star Project – A Rare Earth Hub in the Mojave

Located in California’s Mojave Desert, the Desert Star Project benefits from exceptional infrastructure and geological continuity with Mountain Pass, one of the world’s largest and highest-grade rare earth mines. The project’s strategic location, combined with the newly licensed processing technologies, positions Bayan to potentially become a key player in the U.S. critical minerals landscape, supporting clean technology, defence, and advanced manufacturing supply chains.

Executive Director Fadi Diab highlighted the significance of this milestone, noting the unique geological and metallurgical alignment with Mountain Pass and the opportunity to integrate proprietary processing methods that could unlock higher recoveries and accelerate production timelines.