Ionic Rare Earths Ltd (ASX:IXR, OTC:IXRRF) has kicked off earthworks and construction for its demonstration plant, situated within the Makuutu Heavy Rare Earths Project in Uganda, which is ranked among the world’s largest and most advanced development-ready ionic adsorption clay heavy rare earth element deposits.
This key initiative will provide a robust foundation for various project aspects including grade control, mine design, material handling, metallurgical reconciliation and construction, all while enhancing stage one DFS results.
"Our focus on recycling technology at our Belfast Facility and the Makuutu Heavy Rare Earths Project is paving the way for a secure, sustainable and traceable supply of magnet REOs," said Tim Harrison, Managing Director at IonicRE.
The phase five drilling program has also been fast-tracked, with the completion of all 76 rotary air blast (RAB) holes across the specified licences.
Consequently, this effort supports the objective to upgrade the mineral resource estimate (MRE) classification from inferred to indicated at the project.
Demonstration plant progress
The company is advancing with the development of the project through the local Ugandan operating entity Rwenzori Rare Metals Limited (RRM).
Earthworks have been completed, the facility shed has been 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 this weekend and superstructure erection within the next four weeks.
The Makuutu Demonstration Plant technical facility will validate metallurgical test work and provide further technical validation basis for grade control, mine design, material handling, metallurgical reconciliation and construction activity while also supporting project financing and strategic partner activity.
Harrison adds: "The progress allows IonicRE and RRM to harness our processing innovations to accelerate and validate mine development with a clear process plan for production and profitability.
“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."
Drilling and permitting fast-tracked
As the phase five drilling program nears completion, IonicRE plans to lodge the mining licence application (MLA) before the end of November 2024.
The company also anticipates swift updates to mining regulations following the expedited review of relevant paperwork by Ugandan Authorities.
Harrison adds: “The phase five exploration drilling program is on schedule, with 1,663 metres of RAB drilling completed across exploration licences (EL) 00147 and 00257 and retention licence (RL) 00007.
“Infill core diamond drilling on RL00007 is progressing well, with 29 holes completed, representing 558 metres of the planned 4,380 metres aimed to upgrade the Makuutu Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE), with increased classification of inferred resources to indicated resources, and support the second mining licence application (MLA) located on the Makuutu western zone due to be submitted before the end of November 2024.”
Community engagement
IonicRE's growing Ugandan workforce continues to receive commendation for its diligent engagement programs and the successful acquisition of technical, environmental and social licences to operate.
"Our discussions with key Ugandan Government stakeholders have been extremely positive," Harrison added, emphasising the company’s dedication to fostering positive local relationships and ensuring efficient project progression.
Makuutu Demonstration Plant ground-breaking performed by RRM Country Manager, Patience Singo (left), and Ben Vietnieks (ADT Africa, Right) along with Bugweri District officials at the Makuutu Demonstration Plant site in the Makandwa Village, Makuutu Sub-County.
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