Locksley Advances DeepSolv Technology to Produce High-Purity Antimony

Breakthrough in Antimony Recovery Using DeepSolv™

Locksley Resources (ASX:LKY) has unveiled promising laboratory results from its partnership with Rice University, advancing its DeepSolv™ hydrometallurgical technology towards a domestic U.S. antimony processing route. The company successfully upgraded raw ore containing 9-12% antimony to products with up to 93% Sb concentration, while antimony concentrates were refined to grades between 91% and 96% Sb. These results mark a substantial leap in processing efficiency without relying on traditional high-temperature smelting.

From Ore to Metallic Antimony

Beyond upgrading ore grades, the collaboration achieved a significant milestone by producing pure metallic antimony through electrodeposition directly from raw ore dissolved using DeepSolv™ technology. This development supports the prospect of an integrated processing pathway that spans from ore leaching to metal recovery, potentially streamlining the supply chain for critical antimony products.

Strategic Collaboration with Rice University

Rice University’s expertise in advanced materials and sustainable processing underpins this collaboration, which is structured to move from laboratory validation to pilot-scale evaluation. The partnership not only focuses on technical development but also secures joint ownership of intellectual property generated, positioning Locksley to leverage proprietary technology as it scales. This approach aligns with the company’s broader strategy to establish a secure, domestic supply chain for critical minerals in the United States, anchored by its Mojave Project in California.

Next Steps in Process Optimisation and Scale-Up

Building on these encouraging results, the next phase will concentrate on optimising the DeepSolv™ process, including improving solvent recyclability and refining product purity. Pilot-scale equipment such as reactors and filtration systems will be assessed to support larger-scale leaching and recovery tests. Additionally, the collaboration will explore downstream applications for the recovered antimony products, aiming to validate the commercial viability of this cleaner, low-impact processing method.

Positioning for U.S. Critical Minerals Independence

Locksley’s progress with DeepSolv™ technology complements its recent drilling successes at the Mojave Project, where high-grade antimony mineralisation has been confirmed. This integrated mine-to-market approach could enhance U.S. critical mineral supply chains amid growing geopolitical and environmental pressures. The company’s Managing Director Kerrie Matthews emphasised the importance of these developments in creating a flexible and cleaner antimony recovery pathway, reinforcing the strategic value of domestic processing capabilities.