Dual-listed Mkango Resources has started the final stage of hydrometallurgy pilot plant test work for the Songwe Hill rare earths project, in Malawi.
The design and engineering studies by lead engineer Senet are nearing completion, with the feasibility study targeted for completion in the first quarter of next year.
Rising rare earth prices and concerns over security of supply provide a favourable market backdrop, with accelerating demand geared to growth in green energy and technology applications, the miner said on December 14.
It noted that the piloting of the hydrometallurgy processing flowsheet is an integral part of the feasibility study and a critical step towards commercialisation of the project.
The feed for the hydrometallurgy pilot plant is flotation concentrate derived from the highly successful flotation pilot programme completed earlier in the year.