AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
FRA
GER
ESP
ITA
NLD
PRT
SWE
GRC
IND
POL
BRA
ZAF
RUS
CHN
UAE
Highlights
- Neometals and Mineral Resources join hands with Rio Tinto on lithium tech.
- Focus on validating ELi Process for cost-efficient lithium hydroxide production.
- Neometals announces first resource estimate for Barrambie gold project.
Neometals (ASX:NMT) and Mineral Resources (ASX:MIN) have taken a pivotal step forward in lithium processing innovation by entering into a memorandum of understanding with Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO). The partnership aims to advance the development of the ELi Process Technology, a unique method of producing battery-grade lithium hydroxide with reduced environmental impact and improved cost efficiency.
This collaboration is a major milestone for Reed Advanced Materials (RAM), a joint venture between Neometals and MinRes, holding 70% and 30% stakes respectively. The parties will now explore the commercial validation of the ELi technology, which offers a modern twist to traditional lithium refining methods.
Redefining Lithium Refining with ELi
The ELi Process stands out by eliminating the need for vast quantities of chemical reagents. Instead, it uses electricity to convert lithium chloride into lithium hydroxide in a conventional chlor-alkali cell. This streamlined process has the potential to lower operating costs significantly, aligning with growing industry demand for sustainable and scalable battery materials.
The memorandum outlines a shared commitment to further testing and refining the ELi technology. RAM and Rio Tinto will investigate the necessary optimisation work and revise process design parameters to enable a pilot or demonstration-scale plant. Future agreements may include deploying the technology in real-world applications, with the possibility of Rio Tinto funding further development stages.
Neometals views the collaboration as a transformative opportunity, especially given Rio Tinto’s global presence and focus on energy transition materials. The ELi Process could become a vital addition to Rio’s broader portfolio, complementing its direct lithium extraction initiatives.
Barrambie Gold Resource Adds to Momentum
In parallel to the lithium initiative, Neometals also shared a key update from its wholly-owned Barrambie project in Western Australia. The company announced a maiden mineral resource estimate for the Ironclad prospect, indicating an inferred 250,000 tonnes at 1.6 grams per tonne for approximately 13,000 ounces of gold.
The resource estimate is based on shallow reverse circulation and rotary air blast drilling, focused around historic underground workings. This adds diversification to Neometals’ asset base, offering potential long-term upside from precious metals alongside battery materials.
Outlook for ASX200 and Emerging Innovators
Although Neometals is not currently listed among ASX200 index, its strategic collaborations and forward-looking technologies place it in the spotlight for investors monitoring emerging energy transition themes. Partnerships like the one with Rio Tinto reflect a broader trend of innovation and sustainability that is reshaping Australia’s resource landscape.
With both lithium and gold interests advancing, Neometals continues to solidify its position as a resource innovator with diversified growth prospects on the ASX.
