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Highlights
Critica (ASX:CRI) progresses Jupiter rare earth concentrate through ANSTO and Minutech testwork
Independent leach studies and hydrometallurgical assessments to define processing pathways
Geology and metallurgy streams to support upcoming Scoping Study for the Jupiter Project
Critica (ASX:CRI), a company listed on the asx 200, is moving forward with its Jupiter rare earth project located in Western Australia. The project is gaining momentum as concentrate from Jupiter has been dispatched to the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) for testwork focused on producing mixed rare earth carbonate.
Independent testwork at ANSTO
ANSTO has commenced independent leach assessments on a composite sample from Jupiter. The objective of these studies is to produce mixed rare earth carbonate, which plays a central role in the development of downstream processing options for magnet-focused rare earth elements.
Complementary studies by Minutech
Alongside ANSTO’s program, Minutech is carrying out hydrometallurgical assessments that aim to benchmark processing pathways. This dual-track approach combines institutional testwork with consultancy expertise to establish the most efficient processing strategy for the project’s concentrate.
Parallel development streams
Critica has outlined two major workstreams to advance Jupiter. The geology stream is centred on resource optimisation, infill drilling, and composite sample preparation. These activities are designed to create a more clearly defined geological framework. The metallurgy stream is building on earlier beneficiation outcomes to enhance concentrate quality and inform mine planning.
Beneficiation advantages
Previous beneficiation results from Jupiter have highlighted significant improvements in concentrate grade, coupled with a reduction in mass through physical separation processes. This outcome indicates that future plant designs may be developed with streamlined requirements, lowering both operational and capital intensity compared to peer projects.
Role of ANSTO and Minutech in development
The involvement of ANSTO brings scientific expertise in rare earth processing, while Minutech provides complementary consultancy insights. Together, their independent yet aligned testwork will define chemistry and operational conditions for producing mixed rare earth carbonate at scale.
Pathway to upcoming Scoping Study
Both the geological and metallurgical workstreams are structured to feed into an upcoming Scoping Study. This study will lay the groundwork for future technical and economic evaluations, eventually progressing through Prefeasibility and Definitive Feasibility stages as part of the Jupiter Project’s staged development plan.
Current resource position
Jupiter currently hosts a significant inferred resource of mixed rare earth oxide, defined at a specific cut-off grade. This resource base underpins the company’s ongoing technical programs and provides the material foundation for the continued advancement of pilot work and staged project studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Jupiter Project?
The Jupiter Project is a rare earth development in Western Australia led by Critica (ASX:CRI). - Who is conducting the testwork?
ANSTO and Minutech are carrying out parallel studies on Jupiter concentrate. - What is the next project milestone?
The upcoming milestone is a Scoping Study supported by geology and metallurgy streams.
