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Highlights:
DY6 Metals shares surged following the commencement of preliminary testwork on a bulk sample from the Tundulu Rare Earth and Phosphate Project in Malawi.
Historical drilling at the project has identified high-grade gallium oxide mineralisation near surface, with extensive mineralised intervals.
The Tundulu Project is a carbonatite ring complex with rare earth and phosphate mineralisation, and only a portion of the target area has been drill-tested.
DY6 Metals (ASX:DY6), an ASX-listed company in the rare earths sector, experienced a significant increase in its share price following the announcement of commissioning testwork at its Tundulu Rare Earth and Phosphate Project in southern Malawi. The metallurgical assessment, being carried out in Perth by Auralia Metallurgy, is based on a bulk sample from the project site.
Preliminary Testwork Underway in Perth
The testwork is designed to evaluate the suitability of the Tundulu deposit for the production of rare earth and phosphate concentrates. Outcomes from this process are expected in the near term. This assessment marks a milestone for DY6 Metals as it progresses activities at one of its key projects in Malawi.
Historical Drilling Indicates High Gallium Oxide Content
Previous exploration efforts at the Tundulu Project have returned results showing significant gallium oxide mineralisation from surface. Notable drill intercepts have revealed lengthy zones of mineralisation, including intervals with markedly elevated grades of gallium oxide. These findings have drawn attention to the project’s mineral profile, particularly the presence of critical elements such as gallium and rare earths.
Gallium occurs naturally in trace amounts, often substituting for elements like aluminium and zinc in various minerals. Its primary commercial source is as a byproduct of alumina refining. Gallium is widely utilised in the electronics industry, especially in semiconductors and optoelectronic devices.
China's Dominance in Gallium Supply
Global gallium supply is heavily concentrated, with China accounting for the vast majority of production. This concentration has placed emphasis on developing alternative supply sources. Projects such as Tundulu have gained prominence due to their potential to contribute to the diversification of critical mineral supply chains.
Limited Drilling Coverage to Date
Only a portion of the Tundulu and Nathace target zones within the broader project area has undergone drilling. This means significant parts of the licence area remain untested, presenting scope for further geological investigation and resource delineation.
Geological Setting and Project Overview
The Tundulu Rare Earth and Phosphate Project spans an area of over ninety square kilometres and is characterised by a carbonatite ring complex. These geological settings are often associated with the enrichment of rare earth elements. In addition to rare earths and phosphate, the area is also being explored for niobium and other critical metals.
DY6 Metals holds three exploration projects focused on heavy rare earths and strategic minerals in southern Malawi. The company’s portfolio reflects growing interest in African mineral jurisdictions that host critical metal occurrences.
Forward Plans and Exploration Footprint
As the testwork progresses, DY6 continues to assess the broader mineral potential of the Tundulu region. With only a fraction of the known mineralised zones drill-tested, there remains a significant area for future exploration activities. The company’s activities are part of a wider trend among ASX-listed entities focusing on rare earths and battery-related metals across the African continent.
