Viridis Mining has produced its first batch of high-grade Mixed Rare Earth Carbonate at its Poços de Caldas Demonstration Plant, advancing key milestones for the Colossus Project and setting the stage for commercial-scale rare earth production.
- First high-grade MREC produced at semi-industrial Demonstration Plant
- Plant processes 100kg/hr ionic clay feed from Colossus Northern Concessions
- Supports final DFS validation and offtake negotiations
- Facility features advanced automation and zero liquid discharge system
- Long lead equipment procurement on track for Q3 2026
First MREC Production Marks Technical Breakthrough
Viridis Mining and Minerals Limited (ASX:VMM) has achieved a significant technical milestone with the production of its first batch of high-grade Mixed Rare Earth Carbonate (MREC) from its Demonstration Plant at the Rare Earth Research and Processing Centre (CPTR) in Poços de Caldas, Brazil. This semi-industrial facility, one of the largest continuous operation ionic clay rare earth processing plants outside China, is processing 100 kilograms per hour of clay feed sourced from the Colossus Project’s Northern Concessions, which are planned to support early mining years.
The production of MREC enriched in critical heavy and light rare earth elements such as Dysprosium, Terbium, Neodymium, Praseodymium, and Samarium places Viridis among a select group of rare earth developers capable of delivering consistent, high-value products essential for permanent magnet supply chains. The plant’s successful start-up validates the simplicity and robustness of the Colossus processing flowsheet, which underpins the project’s competitive operating cost profile and potential to reshape the rare earth cost curve.
Demonstration Plant Drives Commercial Readiness
The Demonstration Plant integrates advanced automation through a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) system, enabling continuous operation and generating critical data to refine process parameters ahead of commercial scale-up. Viridis has sourced all major equipment packages from leading global industrial suppliers, many of which are being evaluated for the future commercial Colossus facility. This strategic approach minimizes scale-up risks and accelerates readiness for first production, targeted for 2028.
Environmental stewardship is central to the plant’s design, featuring a Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) water treatment system that recycles process water and reagents, reducing both operating costs and environmental impact. Residue management aligns with best-practice sustainability standards, producing dewatered filter cake suitable for mine backfilling, supporting long-term community and regulatory engagement.
Supporting DFS Completion and Offtake Discussions
With the Demonstration Plant operational, Viridis is advancing key strategic initiatives including the supply of MREC samples to potential offtake partners currently in advanced discussions. These engagements build on earlier qualification samples produced through Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) test work. The company aims to finalize the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) by the end of June 2026, incorporating validated process parameters derived from the Demonstration Plant’s operations.
Viridis is also conducting test programs with shortlisted Long Lead Item (LLI) equipment suppliers, maintaining its schedule to place initial LLI orders during Q3 2026. These steps are critical as the company moves toward a Final Investment Decision targeted for the second half of 2026, following the recent Installation Licence submission that cleared a key regulatory hurdle.
Building Technical Expertise and Community Commitment
The CPTR facility also functions as a training and technical development hub, with dedicated administrative and office spaces to build local expertise and support Viridis’ Brazilian operations. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to local content development and long-term value creation for the Municipality of Poços de Caldas and surrounding communities, including Caldas, Andradas, and Águas da Prata.
Viridis’ progress follows a series of positive developments including strong infill drilling results at Colossus and a resource upgrade, which underpin confidence in the project’s scale and grade. The company’s ability to produce MREC at scale from its own facility further enhances its strategic position within the global rare earth supply chain and supports ongoing financing and offtake negotiations, building momentum toward commercial production resource upgrade and drilling results.
Bottom Line?
Viridis’ Demonstration Plant milestone reduces technical risk and sets a clear path toward commercial rare earth production, but upcoming DFS completion and offtake agreements remain critical to watch.
Questions in the middle?
- How will offtake negotiations evolve following MREC sample deliveries?
- What impact will long lead equipment procurement timing have on the 2028 production target?
- How might environmental and community commitments influence project permitting and social licence?