MTM Critical Metals Limited (MTM) has announced groundbreaking results from their testing of coal fly ash samples using Flash Joule Heating (FJH) technology. The results have shown a remarkable improvement in the acid leachability of rare earth elements (REE) and a range of critical metals, with recovery rates increasing by over 50% and up to 514% when compared to traditional acid leach methods.
MTM Chairman, Mr John Hannaford, expressed excitement over the initial findings, highlighting the potential of the industry-leading FJH technology acquired by the company. The innovative approach has the capability to revolutionize the recovery of critical metals from waste materials, opening up new possibilities for applications in various industries.
Flash Metals USA President, Mr Steve Ragiel, also lauded the progress of the Flash Joule Heating prototype testing, which demonstrated significant increases in the extraction of REE and critical metals from coal fly ash. The technology has shown promise in enhancing leach recoveries while reducing the use of acid, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for metal extraction.
The FJH prototype unit, designed by KnightHawk Engineering in collaboration with Rice University, has successfully processed coal fly ash samples sourced from North Dakota, USA. The results showed substantial improvements in the recovery of key metals such as neodymium, cobalt, lithium, nickel, rubidium, scandium, and titanium.
MTM, along with their partners, will continue testing the FJH technology on various waste sources of critical metals, aiming to optimize recovery rates and advance towards commercial scale opportunities. The potential economic benefits of FJH technology, coupled with the strong pricing dynamics of the recovered metals, highlight a promising future for MTM in the critical metals sector.
The development of FJH technology signals a significant advancement in metal extraction processes, offering a more efficient and sustainable solution for recovering critical metals from waste materials. MTM’s strategic acquisition of Flash Metals Pty Ltd and the ongoing licensing agreement with Rice University position the company as a key player in the evolving landscape of critical metal recovery technologies.
