Exciting Progress in Metallurgical Testing at Halleck Creek
Key Highlights
- Metallurgical test work confirms Halleck Creek ore can be upgraded by 10:1, validating a simple and effective early-stage beneficiation process.
- 93.5% of non-rare earth material can be removed early in processing, meaning only 6.5% of mined ore requires further refining, significantly reducing processing costs.
- This metallurgical milestone confirms the 10x upgrade assumption, supporting the PFS flowsheet and further de-risking the project.
- Optimization work is ongoing to enhance recoveries, streamline processing, and lower costs, supporting the upcoming Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS).
Recently, American Rare Earths (ASX: ARR | OTCQX: ARRNF and AMRRY), a leader in the U.S. rare earths industry, announced promising results from extensive metallurgical testing conducted at its remarkable Halleck Creek Rare Earths Project in Wyoming.
This substantial testing aimed to demonstrate the efficiency of overall ore upgrading using established, low-cost methods. The latest results show the ore can be upgraded from 3,438 ppm (0.34%) of TREO to an incredible 37,200 ppm (3.72%)—a notable 10-fold increase in rare earth concentration. This quantitative leap indicates that out of every tonne of ore mined, only a small fraction of 6.5% needs further refining, thereby minimizing processing demands and related costs.
The contained tests processed a 1.9-tonne sample utilizing advanced technologies such as MG12 Spirals and Induced Roll Magnetic Separation (IRMS), both established within the industry.
Insights from American Rare Earths CEO, Chris Gibbs:
“These results affirm our expectations—Halleck Creek ore can be efficiently upgraded with conventional processing methods. The successful demonstration of this at production scale is a pivotal milestone, further reducing project risks as we move toward development.”
“The substantial test work supports the 10x upgrade assumption from our Scoping Study and strengthens confidence in the project's promising future. With these findings, we plan to release an Updated Scoping Study shortly, incorporating recent information on the JORC Resource increases.”
“Looking forward, we are continuing our metallurgical testing to enhance efficiency and are conducting hydrometallurgical studies to refine our processes. This effort is aligned with the upcoming Pre-Feasibility Study.”
Implications for the Development of Halleck Creek
- Significant Material Upgrade Reduces Processing Volumes: 93.5% of non-REE material is eliminated early, ensuring only 6.5% of mined ore requires further treatment, thereby simplifying and lowering costs.
- Proven Processing Technology Scales Successfully: Mass testing confirms that well-established, cost-effective beneficiation methods can effectively enhance the quality of Halleck Creek ore.
- A Key Step in Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) Development: These results provide key data for the PFS flowsheet and reinforce the processing assumptions from the Initial Scoping Study, mitigating project uncertainties.
The impressive 10:1 early-stage upgrade at Halleck Creek stands as a significant milestone in the evolution of the project. Initial TREO recovery, achieved through the spiral and IRMS process, was recorded at 62%, falling short of the 78% envisaged in the Scoping Study. Nevertheless, ongoing efforts are directed at optimizing recoveries while maintaining, if not improving, the critical 10X upgrade factor.
The encouraging results affirm the initial Scoping Study’s 10x upgrade factor assumption for the processing segment. As the processing assumptions remain unchanged, the current design is still being determined, and further tests aim to uplift recoveries and overall efficiency as the project pushes forward towards the PFS.
This announcement has been formally authorized for distribution by the Board of American Rare Earths.
About American Rare Earths Limited:
American Rare Earths (ASX: ARR | OTCQX: ARRNF | ADR: AMRRY) stands at the forefront of reshaping the U.S. rare earths landscape. Through its subsidiary, Wyoming Rare (USA) Inc., it is progressing with the Halleck Creek project, a leading rare earth deposit that promises to play a critical role in securing America's independence in vital minerals for years to come.
Currently holding a JORC-compliant resource of 2.63 billion tonnes, the Halleck Creek Project constitutes approximately 16% of the entire project area, making it one of the largest rare earth deposits within the U.S. The Cowboy State Mine facilitates affordable open-pit mining techniques and benefits from rapid permitting in this miner-friendly region.
With strategies for onsite processing and separation facilities, Halleck Creek aims to decrease U.S. dependency on overseas imports, especially from China, adeptly addressing the increasing need for rare earth elements fundamental to national defense, cutting-edge technologies, and overall economic security. As exploration advances, the area's unexplored potential, both on State and Federal lands, furthers its importance in the U.S. supply chain's stability.
Furthermore, American Rare Earths is dedicated to sustainable mining practices and continues to partner with U.S. government-supported research and development initiatives to invent innovative extraction and processing tech tailored for rare earth elements. The future for Halleck Creek is promising, positioning it as a resource of monumental significance aligned with U.S. objectives regarding critical mineral independence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent development was announced for Halleck Creek?
American Rare Earths has successfully completed large-scale metallurgical testing showing significant ore upgrades.
How much can Halleck Creek ore be upgraded?
The metallurgical test work confirmed a 10:1 increase in rare earth concentration from the ore.
What impact does this have on processing costs?
With 93.5% of non-rare earth material removed early, only 6.5% of ore is left for more expensive refining, which lowers overall costs.
When can we expect more updates on the project?
Updates will follow shortly, including an Updated Scoping Study that reflects the latest resource increases.
What technologies were used in the testing?
Technologies such as MG12 Spirals and Induced Roll Magnetic Separation (IRMS) were used for the effective upgrading of ore.
