Ionic Rare Earths Limited (ASX: IXR) has progressed its 60% owned Makuutu heavy rare earths project, in Uganda.
Tim Harrison, managing director, stated, “The commercialization of our recycling technology at our Belfast facility and our focus on the delivery of the Makuutu heavy rare earths project in Uganda positions us to provide a secure, sustainable, and traceable supply of magnet REOs.”
At the Makuutu demonstration plant technical facility, earthworks have been completed, the facility shed fabricated and delivered to site, and the erection of the technical facility has commenced.
Foundation formwork is currently being set out, with concrete footings commencing within days and superstructure erection within the next four weeks.
Additionally, Ionic has said the demonstration plant will validate metallurgical test work and provide further technical validation basis for grade control, mine design, material handling, metallurgical reconciliation, and construction activity, whilst also supporting project financing and strategic partner activity.
The company has reported results from its Phase Five drilling:
- All 76 rotary air blast (RAB) holes (1,663m) completed across EL00147, EL00247, and RL00007
- Core drilling progressing with 29 holes drilled for 558m completed of 4,380m programme to support upgrade in the mineral resource estimate classification from inferred to indicated over RL00007
“The progress allows IonicRE and RRM to harness our processing innovations to accelerate and validate mine development with a clear process plan to production and profitability,” Mr. Harrison said.
“This step will also strengthen talks we have progressed with supply chain partners where further value adding has been identified. It is a globally strategic resource for near-term development and long-term security of magnet and heavy rare earth oxide (HREO) supply.”
To find out more, please visit www.ionicre.com.au
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