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Namibia Rare Earths Inc. (TSX:NRE,OTCQX:NMREF) reported additional results from ongoing metallurgical test work on the Area 4 heavy rare earth deposit on the Lofdal Rare Earths Project in northwestern Namibia. Calibration tests confirmed potential of XRT sorting to achieve 50% mass reduction with 85-90% recovery of rare earths.
As quoted in the press release:
Significant improvements in grade and recoveries have been achieved on the high grade sample and the flow sheet is now being directed towards optimizing grades and recoveries of the low grade sample. Significant improvements are also reported from XRT sorting calibration tests carried out by Tomra Sorting Solutions which confirm the potential for a 50% mass reduction with consistent high recoveries (85-90%) of the rare earths.
Namibia Rare Earths President, Don Burton, said:
Magnetic separation has clearly proven the most effective primary beneficiation technique for Lofdal. Recoveries on the high grade sample have increased significantly from 65-78% to 82-90% with optimization (scavenging) of magnetic separation in this first stage. In order to significantly boost the grade we have now determined that scavenging coupled with a simple acid leach can effectively double the grades and we have the first data from the sorted product now showing close to 20% TREO compared to 10% TREO in April. Mintek is completing the acid leach tests on the high grade sample. We have also engaged Nagrom laboratories from Australia to assist in flow sheet development. Nagrom has extensive experience with processing of xenotime from Browns Range (Wolverine deposit) and in particular with flotation. Both Mintek and Nagrom are advancing the flow sheet for the low grade sample. Initial grades and recoveries require further optimization in the same manner as was achieved for the high grade sample.
Click here to read the Namibia Rare Earths Inc. (TSX:NRE,OTCQX:NMREF) press release
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