NioCorp Makes Strides in Rare Earth Recycling

NioCorp

NioCorp Developments, a critical minerals developer, has achieved a significant milestone in its rare earth element (REE) extraction efforts. The company successfully extracted REEs from end-of-life permanent rare earth magnets, utilizing a hydrometallurgical process that will be implemented at its Elk Creek project in Nebraska.

The company's pilot plant in Canada, in collaboration with a third-party partner, processed demagnetized and ground-up permanent magnets into separated rare earth oxides. While specific production volumes were not disclosed, the successful extraction process demonstrates the feasibility of recycling rare earth magnets.

NioCorp is now exploring the potential of a recycling program to complement the REE production at Elk Creek. By recovering valuable REEs from recycled magnets, the company aims to enhance its supply chain sustainability and reduce reliance on primary mining.

However, it's important to note that a comprehensive economic analysis for REE extraction at Elk Creek is still pending. The company will need to assess the financial viability of this venture before proceeding with construction and production.

While the primary focus of the Elk Creek project remains on niobium, scandium, and titanium production, the successful REE extraction from recycled magnets opens up new opportunities for NioCorp and contributes to the growing importance of sustainable rare earth sourcing.