Curtin and Nimy advance gallium R&D

Nimy Resources (ASX: NIM) and Curtin University will collaborate on advancing gallium-related research, development and production, positioning Nimy to unlock the potential of its significant high-grade gallium deposits.

The signing of a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) by Curtin and Nimy establishes a framework for cooperation to strengthen Australia’s position in the critical minerals sector, specifically focusing on gallium — a vital material for advanced technology, renewable energy and defence applications.

The non-binding agreement reflects a shared commitment to leveraging Nimy’s high-grade gallium discovery and Curtin’s world-class research expertise to support secure, allied-controlled supply chains, including for the Australian national security community and United States Department of Defence (US DoD).

Gallium is listed as a critical mineral across Australia, the EU, the UK, the US, India, Japan and South Korea due to its unique properties and essential role in semiconductors (gallium arsenide and gallium nitride), optoelectronics, renewable energy technologies and defence systems.

The global market for Gallium is projected to reach $34.4b (US$22b) by 2034 with a compound annual growth rate of 24.3%, according to the Business Research Company.

Nimy says its recent drilling results have identified Australia’s highest-grade gallium intervals, including 72m at 117ppm gallium oxide and a peak value of 1m at 495ppm gallium oxide. An exploration target is defined between 9.6mt and 14.3mt at 39ppm to 78ppm gallium.

Nimy Resources technical director Christian Price says this MoU with Curtin University marks a significant step forward in the company’s strategy to establish itself as a key player in the gallium market.

“By combining our high-grade gallium discoveries with Curtin’s world-leading research capabilities, we are well-positioned to deliver a secure source of this critical mineral for high-tech and defence applications.

“We look forward to collaborating closely with Curtin and our US partners to unlock the full potential of this initiative.”

Curtin University national resilience & security director, program officer and chief security officer says the university is proud to partner with Nimy to advance gallium research and development (R&D).

“The combination of Curtin’s excellence in minerals research and Nimy’s high-grade exploration target is strategically unique, creating a powerful opportunity to build sovereign capabilities and enhance critical minerals security for Australia and its allies,” he said.

“This collaboration aims to position WA as a global leader, ensuring reliable access to gallium for next-generation technologies while strengthening supply chain resilience.”

The parties will work together to identify and pursue joint research opportunities, engage with industry and government stakeholders and explore funding avenues, including potential Australian and US Government support or targeted R&D grants and initiatives.