Meteoric Resources has successfully commissioned its Mixed Rare Earth Carbonate pilot plant in Brazil, achieving strong recovery rates and production outputs that validate its processing approach and de-risk the Caldeira project.
- 70% average magnet rare earth recovery matching independent ANSTO test results
- Pilot plant production capacity reached and exceeded nameplate target of ~2.0kg/day
- Heavy rare earth recoveries outperform previous pilot testing
- Water and ammonium sulfate recycling systems operating as planned
- Pilot plant output supports product qualification and downstream processing plans
Pilot Plant Performance Validates Processing Strategy
Meteoric Resources NL (ASX – MEI) has reported encouraging progress from its Mixed Rare Earth Carbonate (MREC) pilot plant at the Caldeira Rare Earth Project in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The pilot plant has consistently achieved a 70% average recovery rate for magnet rare earth elements, aligning with and in some cases surpassing results from prior independent testing by ANSTO, Australia’s nuclear science organisation. This milestone confirms the robustness of Meteoric’s process flowsheet and the effectiveness of its metallurgical approach.
The pilot plant has not only met but occasionally exceeded its nameplate production capacity, producing up to 2.6 kilograms of dry MREC per day against a design target of approximately 2.0 kilograms. This output demonstrates operational stability and scalability, critical factors as the company advances towards commercial production.
Strong Heavy Rare Earth Recoveries and Operational Efficiencies
Notably, recoveries of heavy magnet rare earth elements such as dysprosium and terbium have outperformed previous pilot tests, with dysprosium recovery at 56% compared to ANSTO’s 49%, and terbium at 61% versus 57%. These elements are highly valued for their applications in permanent magnets and clean energy technologies, enhancing the strategic value of the Caldeira project.
Operational efficiencies are also evident, with the pilot plant recycling approximately 85% of water and recovering around 90% of ammonium sulfate for reuse. These systems support environmental sustainability and cost control, aligning with Meteoric’s commitment to responsible resource development.
Supporting Offtake and Downstream Processing
The MREC produced is currently being supplied to offtake partners for product qualification, a key step in securing commercial agreements. The pilot plant’s output also underpins plans for further downstream processing within Brazil, potentially adding value and creating local economic benefits.
Meteoric’s Managing Director, Stuart Gale, highlighted the team’s achievement in maintaining and improving pilot plant performance since commissioning. He emphasised that these results not only validate the technical approach but also significantly de-risk the Caldeira project as the company progresses towards completing its definitive feasibility study, obtaining construction licences, and making a final investment decision.
Next Steps and Project Outlook
Looking ahead, Meteoric plans to continue pilot plant operations with further optimisation trials and testing of additional tenements within and beyond the current resource base. Capital and operating costs are tracking in line with budget, providing financial confidence as the project advances.
While the pilot plant results mark a significant step forward, the company acknowledges the inherent risks and uncertainties typical of mining and processing ventures, including market demand fluctuations and regulatory approvals. Nonetheless, the strong technical validation and operational progress position Meteoric Resources well within the competitive rare earths sector.
Bottom Line?
Meteoric’s pilot plant success sets a solid foundation for commercial scale-up and strategic partnerships ahead.
Questions in the middle?
- How will offtake partner feedback influence final product specifications and commercial terms?
- What are the timelines and challenges anticipated for downstream processing development in Brazil?
- How might fluctuations in rare earth market prices impact the project’s final investment decision?