The Western Australian Government has announced it will fund new research into the extraction of rare earth elements across the state.
The government-funded Minerals Research Institute of WA (MRIWA) has awarded $175,000 to the Royal Society of Chemistry, which will work with Curtin University Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer, Narryer Metals, Dreadnought Resources, Terrain Minerals and Pluto Resources.
Previous MRIWA-supported research has already identified and characterised valuable rare earth elements and other strategic elements, including gallium and niobium, within a range of clay-hosted mineral deposits in WA.
This newly announced study will build on these findings with a focus on deposits within the mineral-rich Yilgarn region.
The project will have a particular emphasis on environmentally friendly extraction methods in order to foster sustainable resource development and ensure WA remains at the forefront of innovative and responsible mining practices.
WA Minister for Mines and Petroleum David Michael said the research collaboration between the WA Government, industry and universities demonstrates the state’s commitment to a responsible and sustainable minerals industry.
“Western Australia’s leadership in minerals research gives this state a unique opportunity to play a key role in decarbonising the critical minerals supply chain,” he said.
“I look forward to the outcomes of this research enabling the activation of Western Australia’s world-class mineral reserves in support of renewable energy opportunities globally.”
Future stages planned for the project may establish test facilities and explore the potential for processing and purification of rare earth elements from deposits in WA, helping to activate a robust and sustainable local rare earth industry.
