Vital Metals signs term sheet to negotiate construction of Canadian rare earth extraction plant

By Deputy Chief EditorSeptember 22, 2020

164 1 minute read

Vital Metals Ltd (ASX:VML) has signed a binding term sheet with Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) to negotiate definitive agreements for the construction and operation of a rare earth extraction plant in Saskatoon, Canada, to produce mixed rare earth carbonate products.

Last month, the government of Saskatchewan and the SRC announced a C$31 million funding package for the construction of Canadas first rare earth processing and separating facility in Saskatoon.

Vitals proposed rare-earth extraction plant is planned to be adjacent to SRCs separation plant, which will convert mixed rare earth carbonate to commercial grade-separated rare earth oxides

SRCs facility will require mixed rare earth carbonate product for separation making Vital a likely customer.

Important milestone[hhmc]

Vital Metals managing director Geoff Atkins said: “The signing of this term sheet with SRC marks an important milestone for Vital and the development of the Nechalacho project.

“Whilst the definitive agreements continue to be finalised in line with the term sheet, the company is excited about the prospect of the construction and operation of a rare earth demonstration extraction plant, as well as it being co-located with SRCs recently announced rare earth separation plant.

“Being the only rare earth project in Canada with near-term production capability, co-located with Canadas only separation facility, provides Vital the opportunity to be a cornerstone of the North America Critical Minerals Strategy.”

SRC facility[hhmc]

The SRC rare earth processing facility will include the construction and operation of a rare-earth separation plant, which will convert mixed rare earth carbonate feedstock into commercial grade-separated rare earth oxides.

Construction is anticipated to start in the fourth quarter of 2021 and the plant is expected to be fully operational in late 2022.