Consultants engaged for rare earth element processing plant

ACDC Metals (ASX:ADC) has engaged industry-leading consultants to complete a rare earth element processing plant localisation study for the rare earth processing plant (REPP) in southeastern Australia.

The localisation study builds on earlier scoping studies completed by Medallion Resources to include parameters specific to a potential Australian operation.

Medallion’s study was completed for a North American setting and this updated study will reflect southeastern Australian operating conditions and supporting infrastructure.

It will identify locations that are favourable to the infrastructure and services required for a rare earth element processing plant and optimise potential transport routes to and from market.

National consultancy JBS&G Australia have been engaged to complete the study and provide a roadmap for permitting.

ACDC chief executive Tom Davidson said the beginning of studies is a big step towards the company’s goal of downstream processing.

“The commencement of studies to select the location of ACDC Metals’ rare earth element processing plant in southeastern Australia is a big step towards our strategic goal of downstream processing in Australia,” he said.

“This study builds on the work done by Medallion Resources and will refine processing and permitting parameters for an Australian setting.

“Secure REE supply is essential to support the energy transition, as reiterated by events this week with the implementation of Chinese supply restrictions for gallium and germanium demonstrating the importance of deeper and broader markets for critical raw materials.”

The REPP scoping study will be undertaken in parallel with ACDC’s mineral sands exploration with results to be used to support the development of the maiden resource.

Results are expected in Q4.