Ionic Rare Earths Limited (ASX: IXR) has delivered a boost for its collaboration with leading global automaker Ford Technologies, and UK based specialist alloy manufacturer Less Common Metals (LCM), following the successful separation and first production of high purity terbium oxide (Tb4O7) at its wholly owned subsidiary Ionic Technologies’ Belfast plant.
The production of the maiden terbium (Tb) samples is another first in the magnet recycling industry, highlighting IonicRE’s ability to develop a Western supply chain for this key magnet rare earth oxide (REO).
Executive chairman, Brett Lynch, commented, “This is another significant milestone for IonicRE, solidifying IonicRE as a leader in this sector as we look to build a secure and sustainable Western supply chain for the wind power and other key clean energy industries.”
This achievement follows IonicRE’s successful magnet REO production from demonstration plant in 2023, and significant progress with its wind turbine magnet recycling programme.
Approximately 2.8kg of high purity (>99.5%) Tb4O7 has been produced. IonicRE’s demonstration plant is expected to commence separated magnet REO production on a continuous basis before the end of March 2024.
“Given the global demand for secure and traceable heavy REOs, at high purity, we are pleased to demonstrate our capability to separate and purify Tb and Dy with our technology. Dy and Tb remain in consistently high demand, as we are witnessing first hand from the reverse enquiry from the supply chain looking at alternative supply of these elements.” Mr. Lynch added.
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