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Critica Produces Rare Earths Sample: A New Era for Jupiter Project
23 Sep
Summary
- First high-purity mixed rare earth oxide sample produced.
- Sample contains 28.4% high-value magnet rare earth oxides.
- A high-grade iron concentrate by-product was also produced.
Critica Limited has achieved a significant milestone by producing its first high-purity mixed rare earth oxide (MREO) sample from its flagship Jupiter project. The sample grades at 98.2 per cent total rare earth oxides (TREO) and contains a substantial 28.4 per cent concentration of high-value magnet rare earth oxides, including neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, and terbium.
This production, a result of a year-long metallurgical optimisation program, also yielded a high-grade iron concentrate by-product grading 64.1 per cent iron. Critica has successfully demonstrated an 81 per cent recovery of magnet rare earths and a 14-fold increase in concentrate grade, while reducing estimated sulphuric acid consumption by almost 30 per cent.
Critica CEO Jacob Deysel stated that this physical product sampling supports the next phase of commercial engagement. The company is also developing a mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC) sample. Jupiter is recognized as Australia's largest clay-hosted rare earths resource, crucial for growing demand in electrification and artificial intelligence.
Scoping studies for both the Jupiter and Mt Lindsay projects are expected within a month. Critica aims to demonstrate the economic viability of its rare earths resource, moving from prospect to a tangible commercial proposition. The company remains well-funded with $5.3 million in cash.
