AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
IND
_06_16_2026_04_54_27_535266.jpg)
Highlights
Ionic Rare Earths enhances rare earth oxide output at Belfast facility in response to international supply shifts
Western automakers and manufacturers increase sourcing interest following Chinese export controls
UK funding supports scaled-up recycling operations with lower emissions footprint
Ionic Rare Earths (ASX:IXR), listed on the ASX 300, is scaling its rare earth production efforts through its UK-based subsidiary Ionic Technologies. The initiative aims to support Asia, Europe, and US markets following China’s decision to halt rare earth exports in May.
This development aligns with heightened international interest in Western-produced strategic materials, particularly dysprosium oxide and terbium oxide. In response, the company has advanced activities at its Belfast demonstration plant, which has been operational since early last year.
Demand Surges from Western Manufacturers
With growing supply gaps in critical materials, Ionic Technologies has received several inquiries from global customers, particularly in the automotive and industrial sectors. The company has begun dispatching sample quantities of dysprosium and terbium oxides to new Western customers in response.
The Belfast facility has demonstrated the capacity to produce high-purity rare earth oxides from end-of-life permanent magnets and industrial swarf. This 24-hour operation forms a key part of the company's recycling strategy.
UK Government Backs Rare Earth Supply Chain
To enhance its expansion strategy, Ionic Rare Earths recently secured a funding package from the UK Government. This funding will help establish a rare earth magnet recycling supply chain as part of the CirculaREEconomy project. Activities under this program are expected to commence in the coming month.
A peer-reviewed environmental study has shown that the Belfast-made recycling technology significantly reduces emissions compared to traditional rare earth supply chains. This aligns with broader Western efforts to establish cleaner, sovereign alternatives to Chinese-dominated production routes.
Strategic Applications of Dysprosium and Terbium
Dysprosium and terbium play essential roles in several advanced industries. These elements are valued for enhancing thermal stability and magnetic coercivity in components such as electric vehicle motors, industrial robotics, wind turbines, and specialty lighting.
The market has shown growing interest in diversifying sources of these elements, further supporting Ionic Rare Earths’ expansion plans and its long-term presence in the heavy rare earth sector.
Executive Commentary on Growth Trajectory
Managing Director Tim Harrison emphasised the company’s distinct role in supplying recycled heavy rare earths. He noted that the Belfast plant continues to deliver material to global partners, bolstering Ionic’s position in the post-China export control landscape.
Executive Chairman Brett Lynch highlighted the company’s ongoing path toward full-scale commercialisation. According to Lynch, the company’s strategy is grounded in building a global industrial rare earths business with Western market alignment.
Q1: What is Ionic Rare Earths focusing on in its latest update?
Ionic Rare Earths is scaling up recycled rare earth oxide production for Western markets.
Q2: Where is the company's rare earth recycling operation based?
The recycling facility is located in Belfast under the subsidiary Ionic Technologies.
Q3: Why is there increased demand for dysprosium and terbium?
Global demand surged after China's export restrictions and the need for secure Western supply chains.
