Brazilian Critical Minerals has successfully demonstrated a 200-fold upgrade in rare earth concentration and produced high-purity oxides using Rare Earth Technologies' proprietary process, marking a major step forward for its Ema project.
- 200× rare earth concentration upgrade from 930 ppm to 186,000 ppm TREO-Ce
- 100% recovery of rare earth elements with minimal impurities
- High-purity individual rare earth oxides achieved at 99.9%+ purity
- Environmentally safe, commercially proven RETi separation technology
- Supports ongoing feasibility study and resource expansion at Ema
A Breakthrough in Rare Earth Processing
Brazilian Critical Minerals Limited (ASX – BCM) has announced a significant technical milestone for its Ema ionic adsorbed clay rare earth project in Brazil. Through a bench-scale trial conducted by Rare Earth Technologies Inc (RETi) in Cincinnati, Ohio, BCM successfully upgraded the concentration of rare earth elements (REEs) in its pregnant liquor solution (PLS) by an impressive 200 times. This upgrade elevated the total rare earth oxide (TREO) concentration from a modest 930 parts per million (ppm) to a substantial 186,000 ppm (18.6%), specifically TREO-Ce.
The process not only concentrated the REEs but also achieved 100% recovery, capturing virtually all rare earths from the solution without loss. The technology then cleanly separated the enriched solution into individual rare earth oxides with purities exceeding 99.9%, a level of refinement critical for high-value applications in technology and clean energy sectors.
Innovative and Environmentally Responsible Technology
RETi’s proprietary method integrates solid-phase extraction with high-performance liquid chromatography, employing non-toxic, environmentally safe solvents. This contrasts with traditional rare earth separation methods that often rely on hazardous chemicals and complex multi-step processes. The RETi system is already commercially operational in Europe, offering a streamlined, automated approach that reduces chemical consumption and energy use.
Andrew Reid, BCM’s Managing Director, highlighted the environmental credentials of the technology, noting its alignment with the company’s commitment to sustainable mining practices. The ability to achieve such high purity in a single processing route could significantly enhance the economic and ESG profile of the Ema project.
Strategic Implications for BCM and the Rare Earth Market
The successful bench-scale results pave the way for pilot-scale testing and eventual commercial deployment. BCM is concurrently advancing a bankable feasibility study, expected to complete in the first quarter of 2026, alongside resource extension drilling to further define the Ema deposit’s scale and grade. The Ema project already boasts a world-class mineral resource with high recoveries of critical rare earth oxides, positioning BCM as a notable player in the global critical minerals supply chain.
Steve Levin, RETi’s President and COO, expressed optimism about scaling the technology with BCM, aiming to deliver both light and heavy rare earth oxides to market. Given the growing demand for rare earths in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and advanced electronics, this development could enhance BCM’s market positioning and attract strategic partnerships.
Looking Ahead
While the bench-scale success is promising, the transition to pilot and commercial scale will be closely watched by investors and industry observers. The timeline, costs, and operational challenges of scaling RETi’s technology remain to be fully validated. Nonetheless, BCM’s integration of cutting-edge, environmentally conscious processing technology at Ema signals a forward-thinking approach in a sector often scrutinised for its environmental footprint.
Bottom Line?
BCM’s breakthrough with RETi technology sets a new benchmark in rare earth processing, but scaling remains the next critical hurdle.
Questions in the middle?
- How will pilot-scale testing validate the bench-scale results and what timelines are expected?
- What are the projected capital and operational costs for commercial deployment of RETi’s technology at Ema?
- How might this processing advancement influence BCM’s competitive position in the global rare earth market?