Commerce Resources Corp. initiates downstream hydrometallurgical program
Commerce President Chris Grove. — Photo courtesy Commerce Resources
Commerce Resources Corp. announces that it has initiated a program of downstream hydrometallurgical processing for material from the Ashram Rare Earth Deposit.
This hydrometallurgical testing will demonstrate the entire conceptualized flow sheet with a target of producing a mixed rare earth carbonate (REC) product. Once the hydrometallurgical flowsheet is fully bench tested, and mineral processing further optimized, a mini pilot plant will commence to generate feed for the production of a cerium and lanthanum depleted mixed REC concentrate for evaluation by a potential joint venture and/or off-take partner.
The test work also allow for a deeper evaluation of other potential end-product options with ready markets.
After a detailed review of the flowsheet, as well as a third party in-depth review of marketable rare earth products and potential end-users, the work is now focusing on the following objectives:
1. Optimize the mineral processing flowsheet by focussing on increased TREO recovery as well as HCl regeneration in the leach to further reduce acid consumption.
2. Complete bench testing of the conceptual hydrometallurgical flowsheet in preparation for various end-product generation and evaluation.
3. Complete a mineral processing mini pilot plant to confirm the process on a larger scale, and to generate feed for full demonstration of the hydrometallurgical flowsheet through to production of ~1-2 kg of Ce-La depleted mixed REC.
The metallurgical programs will be conducted at UVR-FIA GmbH in Germany, and Hazen Research Inc. in Golden, CO. Both the hydrometallurgical and mineral processing programs will be completed in a parallel and cooperative manner between Hazen and UVR for optimal advancement of the schedule.
Commerce President Chris Grove states: "Through our understanding of industry interests and requirements, we are excited to be initiating these advanced metallurgical programs with Hazen and UVR."
About Commerce Resources Corp.
Commerce Resources Corp. is an exploration and development company with a particular focus on deposits of rare metals and rare earth elements. The Company is focused on the development of its Upper Fir Tantalum and Niobium Deposit in British Columbia and the Ashram Rare Earth Element Deposit in Quebec.
