Latest Pilot Plant News

Australian Rare Earths (ASX: AR3) has announced a maiden Ore Reserve of 26 million tonnes at 920 ppm TREO for its Koppamurra Rare Earths Project, underpinned by a robust Pre-Feasibility Study delivering an A$858 million post-tax NPV and a rapid payback of less than one year.

EAU Lithium has committed to acquiring Vulcan's proven A-DLE Pilot Plant 4 from Germany, strengthening its capacity to optimise lithium extraction from Bolivian brines and supporting strategic deployment of VULSORB® technology.

Andromeda Metals has started commissioning its High Purity Alumina pilot plant, aiming to produce commercial-grade 4N HPA samples in the second half of 2026 for customer qualification. The pilot plant will also explore value from by-products like amorphous silica and gallium, adding potential upside to the project.

EAU Lithium has locked in a Master Services Agreement with South American EPCM leader SEPCON, setting the stage for pilot plant deployment and advancing lithium production plans in Bolivia.

Meteoric Resources has secured key federal endorsements for its Caldeira Rare Earth Project’s environmental licensing, keeping the Installation License on schedule for December 2026 and paving the way for a final investment decision.

PMET Resources has partnered with Mitsui and Microwave Chemical to test microwave calcination technology for on-site lithium refining at Shaakichiuwaanaan, aiming to leverage Quebec’s renewable hydro power to boost value capture and reduce logistics.

International Graphite Ltd (ASX:IG6) has partnered with Alkeemia S.p.A. to establish a graphite processing facility in Italy, aiming for first production in the second half of 2027 and a final investment decision by Q3 2026.

Iron Bear Resources (ASX:IBR) has detailed progress on its Canadian Iron Bear Project, highlighting a robust scoping study, a major joint venture with Vale, and strategic advantages in a growing direct reduction pellet market.

Zinc of Ireland (ASX: ZMI) has finalised its acquisition of Meclex, securing two hydrometallurgical technologies aimed at disrupting zinc and lead processing with low-emission methods. Backed by a fresh A$5.5 million placement, ZMI is accelerating pilot plant development and exploration at its Kildare project.

Victory Metals has achieved a major processing milestone at its North Stanmore Project, producing a 7.1% Total Rare Earth Oxide concentrate with 40% heavy rare earth oxides through continuous flotation at pilot scale.

Lithium Universe (ASX: LU7) has completed the detailed process flow sheet for a novel hydrometallurgical technology licensed from the University of Edinburgh to extract gold and copper from electronic waste. The low-temperature, reagent-recycling method aims to disrupt traditional smelting with environmental and cost benefits.

Firebird Metals has placed all critical equipment orders for its Perth-based Australian Demonstration Plant, triggering the first ARENA grant payment and setting the stage for a pivotal 90-day fabrication phase. The project remains on track for early Q4 2026 equipment delivery, with imminent lithium manganese rich cathode results expected from its China pilot plant.