Lindian achieves 98% rare earths recovery in independent tests

Lindian Resources announced that independent tests by the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) achieved 98% recovery of rare earth elements from concentrate sourced from the company's Kangankunde project in Malawi. The tests also produced a non-radioactive mixed rare earths carbonate, a key step toward downstream processing. Kangankunde is one of the world's largest undeveloped rare earths deposits, and this result significantly de-risks the project's metallurgical pathway. The company plans to use this data to advance feasibility studies and secure offtake agreements. The announcement comes amid growing global demand for rare earths, critical for electric vehicles, wind turbines, and defense technologies.

Global Impact

Economically, the 98% recovery rate improves the project's viability and could help reduce Western dependence on Chinese rare earths processing, which currently controls over 60% of global supply. Politically, it supports Malawi's mining sector development and could attract foreign direct investment.