Outstanding preliminary results have been obtained from two column leach tests being conducted by ANSTO. After 17 days, one column has achieved 81% extraction of total rare earths except cerium, including 76% extraction of dysprosium (Dy) and 79% extraction of terbium (Tb). The extraction in the second column is lower, but this is expected to increase after further leaching time. These extractions are even higher than achieved in tank leaching tests.

The column leach tests will complete as planned before the end of December and be unloaded in early January. Final results will be reported once analysis is complete.

Given the strong customer interest in MRECs from the Deep Leads resource, ABx is considering engaging ANSTO to produce another MREC sample from the rare earth rich solution produced from these column leach tests.