Andromeda Metals Advances HPA Pilot Plant Targeting Commercial Samples in 2026

Pilot Plant Commissioning Marks Transition to Commercialisation

Andromeda Metals (ASX:ADN) has reached a pivotal milestone with the commissioning of its High Purity Alumina (HPA) pilot plant, signalling a shift from laboratory-scale batch processing to a continuous production model. The pilot testwork, scheduled to run through the third quarter of 2026, aims to produce commercial-grade 4N HPA samples for customer qualification by the second half of the year. This development builds on laboratory results that achieved an HPA purity of 99.9985%, positioning Andromeda to advance its proprietary processing technology toward scalable, low-cost production.

Strong Project Economics Underpin Commercial Ambitions

The momentum follows a 2025 Scoping Study that highlighted the project’s robust economics and competitive edge, particularly in terms of production costs and capital intensity. Andromeda’s unique approach leverages its high-quality Great White kaolin feedstock, notable for its high alumina content and exceptionally low impurities such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium. This chemical profile facilitates efficient downstream processing, a critical factor in producing high-purity alumina suitable for advanced industrial applications.

By-Products Offer Additional Value Potential

Beyond HPA, the pilot plant will generate by-products including amorphous silica and gallium, which are being assessed for commercial viability. Amorphous silica is widely used in rubber manufacturing and as a high-value agricultural fertiliser, suggesting a promising secondary revenue stream. More strategically significant is gallium, a critical mineral with applications in advanced electronics, semiconductors, aerospace, and defence technologies. The Great White kaolin feedstock contains measurable gallium concentrations, raising the prospect of its recovery alongside alumina.

Gallium’s Strategic Importance Amid Supply Chain Risks

Gallium’s supply is heavily concentrated, with China controlling 99% of global primary production. Recent geopolitical tensions have led to export restrictions, including a suspended ban on exports to the United States, underscoring the mineral’s vulnerability and strategic importance. Andromeda’s potential to recover gallium could not only diversify its product offering but also align with critical mineral priorities in Australia, the US, the EU, and NATO allies, enhancing the project's geopolitical relevance.

Next Steps and Market Engagement

Following pilot plant commissioning, Andromeda will continue testwork through Q3 2026, focusing on scaling production and refining process flowsheets. The company plans to use pilot results to support feasibility studies and advance customer qualification efforts. Acting CEO Sarah Clarke emphasised the dual opportunity presented by the proprietary process: “Our technology not only aims for efficient HPA extraction but also unlocks value from other critical minerals within our high-quality kaolin.” This strategic dual focus could enhance project economics and position Andromeda as a competitive player in the global HPA market.