In a recent interview with host Tracy Weslosky, Tom Drivas, CEO and Director of Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API | OTCQX: APAAF), announced the significant addition of Constantine Karayannopoulos to Appia’s Critical Minerals Advisory Committee. Tom discussed how this move is a major endorsement of Appia’s projects, given Constantine’s reputation in the rare earths sector. Constantine, who is well known for his leadership in the critical mineral sector lead the Neo Materials deal by Molycorp in 2012 for C$1.3 billion. He was also the co-founder and Chairman of the Board of Neo Lithium Corp. when it was sold to Zijin Mining Group Co., Ltd. for $960 million in 2022.

Constantine Karayannopoulos joins Appia’s Advisory team, alongside world renowned critical minerals expert and the co-founder and Co-Chair of the Critical Minerals Institute (CMI) Jack Lifton. Jack who was the co-editor of the recently published textbook, Rare Earth Metals and Minerals Industries: Status and Prospects 1st ed. 2024 Edition, is joined with Don Hains, P. Geo who is a Consulting Geologist and well-known expert in ionic clay projects. In this interview, Tom emphasizes how having three of the world-renowned rare earths experts on Appia’s Critical Minerals Advisory Committee supports the commitment to leverage top-tier expertise to advance Appia’s Projects in Canada and Brazil.

Appia’s recent announcement of exceptional diamond drill results from the PCH ionic adsorption clay project in Brazil was also discussed in the interview. These results have revealed significant concentrations of Total Rare Earth Oxide (TREO) within the top 20 meters from the surface. Tom added, “Just for comparison, there is a deposit that went into production in the same area, and their average grade is 1,200 parts per million (PPM). We’re getting up to 93,000 PPM.”

Moreover, Tom outlined Appia’s broader strategy, which encompasses both rare earths and uranium projects. Tom outlined Appia’s involvement in the uranium sector, noting several uranium projects in the Athabasca Basin in Saskatchewan and Ontario. With plans to begin drilling at the Loranger Uranium-Bearing Property in Saskatchewan, Tom explains how Appia is positioning itself to capitalize on the rising uranium market. To access the full interview, click here

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About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp.

Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company is currently focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property, as well as exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 113,837.15 hectares (281,297.72 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 13,008 hectares (32,143 acres), with rare earth elements and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario. Lastly, the Company holds the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the PCH Project (See June 9^th, 2023 Press Release – Click HERE) which is 40,963.18 ha. in size and located within the Goiás State of Brazil. (See January 11^th, 2024 Press Release – Click HERE)

To learn more about Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp., click here

Disclaimer: Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. is an advertorial member of InvestorNews Inc.

This interview, which was produced by InvestorNews Inc. (“InvestorNews”), does not contain, nor does it purport to contain, a summary of all material information concerning the Company, including important disclosure and risk factors associated with the Company, its business and an investment in its securities. InvestorNews offers no representations or warranties that any of the information contained in this interview is accurate or complete.

This interview and any transcriptions or reproductions thereof (collectively, this “presentation”) does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to subscribe for or purchase any securities in the Company. The information in this presentation is provided for informational purposes only and may be subject to updating, completion or revision, and except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any information herein. This presentation may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and assumptions of the management of the Company as of the date made. They are inherently susceptible to uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual events/results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that the Company does not know about now or that it currently deems immaterial, may also adversely affect the Company’s business or any investment therein.

Any projections given are principally intended for use as objectives and are not intended, and should not be taken, as assurances that the projected results will be obtained by the Company. The assumptions used may not prove to be accurate and a potential decline in the Company’s financial condition or results of operations may negatively impact the value of its securities. This presentation should not be considered as the giving of investment advice by the Company or any of its directors, officers, agents, employees or advisors. Each person to whom this presentation is made available must make its own independent assessment of the Company after making such investigations and taking such advice as may be deemed necessary. Prospective investors are urged to review the Company’s profile on SedarPlus.ca and to carry out independent investigations in order to determine their interest in investing in the Company.

Welcome to the latest Technology Metals Report (TMR) where we highlight the Top 10 news stories that members of the Critical Minerals Institute (CMI) have forwarded to us over the last 2-weeks.

Key highlights in this Technology Metals Report include significant developments such as Rainbow Rare Earths Limited’s discovery in South Africa, China’s unveiling of the new heavy rare earth mineral Bayanoboite-Y, and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)’s $13.9 million funding for critical minerals research. The edition also spotlights the “CMI Masterclass: The Middle East’s Escalating Investment Interest in Africa’s Critical Minerals,” focusing on the strategic importance of Middle Eastern investments in Africa’s mineral sector. Moreover, the increasing global interest in Saudi Arabia’s mineral resources, highlighted at a recent mining conference in Riyadh, illustrates the geopolitical and economic shifts in the critical minerals landscape.

The 10 stories selected for this edition of the TMR, with source links to source stories for this fast-paced sector, are listed chronologically for your ease and review. These narratives highlight the dynamic shifts, strategic innovations, and geopolitical complexities shaping the critical minerals landscape, reflecting the increasing significance of these resources in technology, green energy solutions, and global market dynamics.

The Rare Earths Mine That Won’t Need a Single Shovel (January 17, 2024, Source) — George Bennett, a South African mining veteran, discovered a unique opportunity in two gypsum waste piles near the Mozambique border, which contain high concentrations of rare-earth minerals crucial for wind turbines and electric vehicles. This finding is notable due to the rarity of economically viable rare-earth concentrations, particularly above ground, and China’s dominance in the rare-earth market. Rainbow Rare Earths Limited (LSE: RBW), Bennett’s company, projects over $1 billion in net value from these piles, with no traditional mining costs. The project is set to start in 2026 and offers a competitive edge due to its low production costs and innovative processing methods. Despite market volatility, Rainbow’s unique approach positions it well in the growing demand for rare-earth oxides, essential for the energy transition. Referral, CMI Director, Russell Fryer

China discovers new heavy rare earth mineral (January 16, 2024, Source) — Chinese scientists have discovered a new heavy rare earth mineral named Bayanoboite-Y at the Bayan Obo Rare Earth Mine in Baotou, North China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. This mineral, unique in its chemical composition and crystal structure, contains significant heavy rare earth elements like yttrium, dysprosium, gadolinium, erbium, and lutetium. It marks the world’s first fluorocarbonate heavy rare earth new mineral discovery, signifying a major breakthrough in understanding the occurrence and evolution of heavy rare earth minerals. The Bayan Obo mine, crucial to China’s rare-earth reserves, has discovered 18 new minerals since 1959. China, leading globally in rare earth production, plans to expand its rare-earth industry, leveraging recent advancements in mining efficiency and recovery rates. Referral, CMI Director, Alastair Neill

China’s rare earth exports rise on demand from EV, high-tech sectors (January 12, 2024, Source) — In 2023, China’s rare earth exports rose by 7.3% to 52,307 metric tons, fueled by growing demand from the electric vehicle and high-tech sectors. As the world’s leading producer, China’s rare earths are essential in various applications, including new energy vehicles, wind power, and military equipment. Despite international tensions over critical mineral control and China’s export restrictions on certain key materials, demand continued to outstrip supply, affecting prices. However, fears of supply shortages, especially after a mining suspension in Myanmar, drove prices up. While China increased its mining quotas, its rare earth exports dropped by 18.24% in December 2023 compared to the previous month. Meanwhile, China’s rare earth imports surged by 45% in the last month, reflecting a 44.8% annual increase. Referral, CMI Director, Alastair Neill

Will the magnet rare earths prices rise in 2024? (January 12, 2024, Source) — The magnetic rare earths sector, impacted by falling prices in 2022 and 2023 due to reduced global EV demand, is examined with a focus on Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. (ASX: LYC) and MP Materials Corp. (NYSE: MP). The downturn is linked to a slow global economy and EV sales decline, but a recovery is anticipated. Lynas has launched production at Australia’s Kalgoorlie Rare Earths Processing Facility, signaling progress. MP Materials is expanding in the USA with a focus on NdPr oxide and NdFeB magnets production. The sector’s future, potentially seeing a NdPr supply deficit as early as 2024, hinges on global economic recovery and EV market resurgence. These developments are crucial for establishing a Western-dominated rare earths and magnets industry within this decade.

ANSTO welcomes $13.9M critical minerals funding (January 12, 2024, Source) — The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) has been allocated $13.9 million under the Australian Critical Minerals Research and Development Hub, as part of a wider $22 million funding package. This investment, announced by Minister Madeleine King, will support ANSTO’s research into rare earth elements, focusing on the discovery, extraction, and processing from clay-hosted and ionic adsorption deposits. Led by CEO Shaun Jenkinson, the project aims to enhance Australia’s standing in the global rare earth market, develop specific mineral processing techniques, and improve environmental outcomes. Collaborating with Geoscience Australia and CSIRO, ANSTO’s two-year project aligns with the national strategy for critical minerals, emphasizing their importance in green technologies and the pursuit of net zero emissions. Referral, CMI Co-Chairman Jack Lifton

Hunt for Critical Minerals Draws World Powers to Saudi Arabia (January 12, 2024, Source) — The global quest for critical minerals has brought world powers like the U.S., China, and Russia to Saudi Arabia, which is emerging as a key player in the mining sector. The kingdom, traditionally known for its oil wealth, is investing heavily in mining to diversify its economy and has positioned itself as a central hub in a “super region” rich in natural resources. This was highlighted at a recent mining conference in Riyadh, attended by international government and industry leaders. Saudi Arabia aims to leverage its strategic geographical position and vast untapped mineral wealth, recently re-estimated at $2.5 trillion, to attract global investments and partnerships. The conference saw significant participation, indicating a growing interest in Saudi Arabia’s mining potential and its efforts to establish stronger diplomatic and economic ties with various countries. Deals worth approximately $20 billion were expected, with the U.S. and Russia signing memorandums of understanding. This shift towards mining is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 strategy to reduce oil dependency and cultivate new economic sectors. Referral, CMI Co-Chairman Jack Lifton

Why Core Lithium’s mine closure was just the tip of the iceberg (January 11, 2024, Source) — Core Lithium’s closure of its Grants mine reflects a broader crisis in the Australian mining sector, particularly impacting small-to-mid cap companies unnoticed for the last 12-24 months. Several mines, including First Quantum Minerals Ltd. (TSX: FM) and POSCO’s Ravensthorpe, Arcadian Lithium PLC’s (NYSE: ALTM | ASX: LTM) Mt Cattlin, and others, face similar risks due to declining battery metal prices and operational challenges. The cobalt market, for instance, saw dramatic price fluctuations, impacting projects like Jervois Global Limited’s (ASX: JRV | TSXV: JRV | OTCQB: JRVMF) Idaho Cobalt Project. Other companies, such as Hastings Technology Metals Ltd. (ASX: HAS) and Panoramic Resources Limited (ASX: PAN), have had to alter strategies due to various challenges. This trend contrasts with larger, stable companies like Pilbara Minerals and underscores the need for revised economic studies and strategies in a volatile market. Referral, CMI Director, Peter Clausi

Serra Verde Enters Commercial Production (January 11, 2024, Source) — Serra Verde has commenced commercial production of Mixed Rare Earth Concentrate from its Pela Ema deposit in Brazil. Targeting 5,000 tonnes annually, these rare earths are crucial for electric vehicle motors and wind turbines. The company has secured customer acceptance and offtake agreements, with plans to double production by 2030. Emphasizing sustainability, Serra Verde’s operations use eco-friendly methods and renewable energy. CEO Thras Moraitis highlights the company’s role in producing critical rare earths, supporting sustainable energy transitions. Ricardo Grossi, COO, emphasizes Brazil’s emerging role in rare earth production and the company’s commitment to sustainable practices and stakeholder benefits. Referral, CMI Director, Alastair Neill

Rare Earth Oxide separation work commences at the back-end pilot plant in Florida, U.S. (January 11, 2024, Source) — Rainbow Rare Earths Limited (LSE: RBW) has initiated the separation of rare earth oxides at their pilot plant in Florida, U.S., using a continuous ion exchange and chromatography process developed by K-Technologies. This innovative approach, replacing traditional solvent extraction, is set to produce critical rare earths like neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, and terbium, crucial for the green economy. The Johannesburg pilot plant has prepared and shipped mixed rare earth carbonate to Florida for separation, enhancing the process by producing a cerium-depleted version for more efficient separation. Despite some delays, the project continues to make significant advancements in optimizing the process for commercial scale. The Phalaborwa project, a key part of Rainbow’s strategy, aims to establish an independent, ethical supply chain for rare earth elements, essential in various advanced technologies and green energy solutions. Referral, CMI Director, Alastair Neill

CMI Masterclass: The Middle East’s Escalating Investment Interest in Africa’s Critical Minerals (January 10, 2024, Source) — The “CMI Masterclass: The Middle East’s Escalating Investment Interest in Africa’s Critical Minerals,” led by Tracy Weslosky of the Critical Minerals Institute, discussed the rising Middle Eastern investment in Africa’s mineral sector. Experts, including Melissa Sanderson, Jack Lifton, and Russell Fryer, explored its strategic significance for the global market and supply chain. The impact on American firms and competition with China in Africa were key topics. The session also examined the broader implications of such investments, as illustrated by Robert Friedland’s company’s Middle Eastern funding. The panel weighed the financial benefits against long-term strategic, economic, and geopolitical challenges, offering insight into the complex dynamics of global critical minerals investment.

Defense Metals Signs MOU with Ucore to Ship Rare Earth Carbonate to RapidSX™ Facility in Ontario (January 9, 2024, Source) — Defense Metals Corp. (TSXV: DEFN | OTCQB: DFMTF) and Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSXV: UCU | OTCQX: UURAF) have agreed on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to forge a North American rare earth element (REE) supply chain. Under this MOU, Defense Metals will send a rare earth carbonate sample from its Wicheeda REE project in British Columbia to Ucore’s RapidSX™ facility in Ontario for processing. This initiative is a critical step in establishing a Western REE supply chain, responding to the growing demand for REE feedstock. The collaboration, featuring Defense Metals’ strategically located Wicheeda project and Ucore’s innovative RapidSX™ technology, aims to evaluate joint venture possibilities. This partnership aligns with Ucore’s broader strategy, including the development of a commercial REE processing plant in Louisiana, supported by the US Department of Defense and the Canadian Government.

Investor.News Critical Minerals Media Coverage:

• January 12, 2024 – Will the magnet rare earths prices rise in 2024? https://bit.ly/48Q1C6f
• January 9, 2024 – Defense Metals Signs MOU with Ucore to Ship Rare Earth Carbonate to RapidSX™ Facility in Ontario https://bit.ly/4aIQH05
• January 7, 2024 – Unveiling Hallgarten & Company’s Latest Insight: Model Resources Portfolio: Peak Climate Hysteria https://bit.ly/48raH5E

Investor.News Critical Minerals Videos:

• January 16, 2024 – Jeff Killeen on PDAC 2024: Shaping the Future of Critical Minerals and Mining https://bit.ly/3TYprop
• January 10, 2024 – CMI Masterclass: The Middle East’s Escalating Investment Interest in Africa’s Critical Minerals https://bit.ly/3HnUQZL

Critical Minerals IN8.Pro Member News Releases:

• January 19, 2024 – Power Nickel Commences 2024 Drill Program https://bit.ly/3vF8yot
• January 19, 2024 – Zentek Announces Eric Wallman Appointed as Chairman of the Board https://bit.ly/3u2y0nx
• January 17, 2024 – Defense Metals Announces McLeod Lake Indian Band Co-Design Agreement and Partnership Investment https://bit.ly/48UduUX
• January 16, 2024 – Fathom Announces Commencement of Exploration at Albert Lake Project and Selection for Participation at AME Roundup Core Shack https://bit.ly/3tJGujq
• January 16, 2024 – Appia Reports 92,758 ppm (9.3%) TREO, 13,798 ppm MREO (1.38%) and 2,241 (.24%) ppm HREO over 2m Within the Total Weighted Average of 38,655 ppm (3.87%) TREO, 6,869 ppm (.69%) MREO, and 1,380 ppm (.14%) HREO Across 24m (EOH) Following the Reanalysis of Over-Limit Assay Results from PCH-RC-063 at the PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project in Goias, Brazil https://bit.ly/48MrNuQ
• January 16, 2024 – F3 Announces Intention to Spin-Out F4 Uranium Corp. https://bit.ly/3Hm37NV
• January 15, 2024 – Panther Metals PLC – Fulcrum Metals: Update on Saskatchewan Uranium Projects https://bit.ly/423pmlh
• January 15, 2024 – Appia Announces Significant Geochemical Critical REE Assay Results at Alces Lake Project, Saskatchewan, Canada https://bit.ly/3HlFLbc
• January 12, 2024 – F3 Grants Options https://bit.ly/3vCzYvi
• January 12, 2024 – Ucore Invited to Present at National Defense Industry Association Event https://bit.ly/3TZ7giq
• January 11, 2024 – Panther Metals PLC: Graphite Discovery Grows Significantly at Obonga https://bit.ly/3SeTjvc
• January 11, 2024 – Ucore Makes Announcement Regarding Convertible Debentures https://bit.ly/4aQ3de5
• January 11, 2024 – Appia Receives Approval for 12 Additional Claim Blocks at Its PCH Rare Earths Ionic Adsorption Clay Project, Goias, Brazil https://bit.ly/3O0yzFc
• January 11, 2024 – Nano One Announces Carlo Valente as CFO https://bit.ly/3RSkpaf
• January 9, 2024 – Auxico Announces Results of a 2023 Sampling Campaign on the Minastyc Property https://bit.ly/47w158C
• January 9, 2024 – Critical Metals PLC Notice of AGM / Board Changes and Extension of Warrant Term https://bit.ly/3TSV2rB
• January 9, 2024 – Imperial Welcomes Guy Bourassa as CEO New Appointment Adds Depth to the Management Team https://bit.ly/48r6C1l
• January 9, 2024 – Power Nickel Raises $2,180,000, Outlines 2024 Plans https://bit.ly/41Pr4qe
• January 9, 2024 – Defense Metals to Ship Wicheeda Mixed Rare Earth Carbonate Sample to Ucore Rare Metals Inc. https://bit.ly/3RNhWhn
• January 8, 2024 – Sage Potash Secures Permit Approvals for Exploration Program at Sage Plain Potash Project https://bit.ly/3H9x9En
• January 8, 2024 – F3 Mobilizes to Drill A1 and B1 at PLN https://bit.ly/3TPP0Yw
• January 8, 2024 – Critical Metals PLC Placing https://bit.ly/3NPxiRm

Over the years I have lost count of the times I have recommended that public companies secure a research report, simply because I personally love the benefit of third-party analysis and metrics. Toss in an analyst with more financial degrees than most CFOs such as eResearch’s Chris Thompson, and the analysis can prove beneficial to everyone reading the content, including the company and all of us interested in critical minerals. Having followed rare earths company Search Minerals Inc. (TSXV: SMY | OTCQB: SHCMF) (“Search”) for a decade now, the recent eResearch analyst report blind-sided me by the coverage in that it was a staggering 72-page overview, review and historical biography of not only Search Minerals, but a worthwhile read on the rare earths sector.

Now for my notes extracted from my review of the eResearch Report on Search, but again I urge you to access the eResearch analyst report directly to secure any answers you may be ‘searching’ for…

Search Minerals is developing their rare earths projects in Labrador, Canada. Their flagship project is the Port Hope Simpson (“PHS”) Property which includes the Foxtrot resource, Deep Fox resource, Silver Fox, Awesome Fox, and Fox Meadow deposits. The Property is prospective for rare earth elements (‘REE’) Neodymium (Nd), Praseodymium (Pr), Dysprosium (Dy), and Terbium (Tb), Zirconium (Zr) and Hafnium (Hf). Search Minerals plans mining and primary production of the Deep Fox and Foxtrot deposits all going well by 2025 in Labrador and further refining of concentrate into REE oxides and carbonates on the Island of Newfoundland thereafter.

The updated 2022 PEA resulted in a post-tax NPV8% of C$1.31 billion and a post-tax IRR of 41.5%. Initial CapEx was estimated at C$422 million (including a C$61 million contingency) with a mine life of 26 years.

Foxtrot and Deep Fox Resource estimate – 31 December 2021

Source: Search Minerals news April 11, 2022

Search Minerals development timeline plan

Source: eResearch report on Search Minerals p.15

Highlights of the eResearch report (“The report”) on Search Minerals, which was initiated on September 14, 2022:

• The Importance of Rare Earth Elements (REE) – If you are new to rare earths, this report highlights the many uses of rare earths including their role in the EV sector. Of interest was the quote on page 4: “Neodymium (Nd) is the strongest known magnetic substance and Nd magnets are used in applications that require strong, compact permanent magnets, such as cellular phones, electric motors, hard disk drives, televisions, and medical devices.” Also an interesting point for your next trivial discussion with friends over a glass of wine, is that the smartphone (screen and electronics) contains at least 9 rare earth elements.
• Search Minerals PEA (2022) Highlights (based on the Foxtrot and Deep Fox Resource) – Mine production of 2,000 tpd (720,000 tpa) over a 26-year mine life, including both open pit and underground operations….Underground mining capital in Year 7 of C$54 million is funded from operations….Annual production of approximately 1,437 t of Magnet Rare Earths Oxides (Nd+Pr: 1,291 t, Dy: 125 t, and Tb: 21 t).
• Key Projects Funded for C2022: Funded for Deep Fox exploration, preparation of 70t bulk sample, and working towards the start of a Feasibility Study.
• Strong Management Team – Management has extensive experience, geological knowledge of the region, and are experts in REE processing. Since I know many of the members of this team, I urge you to review the geological team as many in this sector often refer to them as the best in the business, specifically Dr. David Dreisinger whom Jack Lifton and I have used in numerous interviews over the years to help the InvestorIntel.com audience understand the rare earths market.
• Search Minerals Appears Inexpensive Using Different Valuation Metrics – The Report looked at several different valuation methodologies for Search Minerals. eResearch initiates coverage on Search Minerals and reports a Speculative Buy Rating.

Again, the eResearch report makes for compelling reading and I would encourage anyone serious about investing in rare earths investors to review the entire report.

Most certainly the potential 17x upside (p 5) if Search Minerals succeeds to production is something to consider, especially given the backdrop of forecast shortages of the key magnet rare earths this decade as the EV and wind energy sectors potentially boom. Investors should also consider the various risks that junior miners face as not all will succeed.

Search Minerals Inc. currently trades at C$0.10 with a market cap of C$41 million.

Disclosure: The valuations presented in this article are those of eResearch and not InvestorIntel. Search Minerals is a digital media advertiser on InvestorIntel.com and pays for both banner ads and interviews, however, neither eResearch nor Search Minerals have paid for this content.

In this discussion, InvestorIntel’s Byron W. King interviews Pat Ryan, Chairman and CEO of Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSXV: UCU | OTCQX: UURAF). They discuss the rapid move to electrification within the global auto industry, and how Ucore is positioned to become a key supplier of critical metals to Tier 1 component makers. Presently, Ucore is focused on a specific, highly profitable, downstream market segment that goes well beyond mining and mineral concentration. Ucore has strong support for startup operations from the State of Alaska, with eventual plans to build out facilities in other areas of North America to meet the fast-growing demand for rare earth materials.

To watch the full interview, click here

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About Ucore Rare Metals Inc.

Ucore is focused on rare- and critical-metals resources, extraction, beneficiation, and separation technologies with the potential for production, growth, and scalability. Ucore has a 100% ownership stake in the Bokan-Dotson Ridge Rare Earth Element Project in Southeast Alaska, USA. Ucore’s vision and plan is to become a leading advanced technology company, providing best-in-class metal separation products and services to the mining and mineral extraction industry.

Through strategic partnerships, Ucore’s vision includes disrupting the People’s Republic of China’s control of the US REE supply chain through the development of a heavy and light rare-earth processing facility – the Alaska Strategic Metals Complex in Southeast Alaska and the long-term development of Ucore’s heavy-rare-earth-element mineral-resource property located at Bokan Mountain on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska.

To learn more about Ucore Rare Metals Inc., click here

Disclaimer: Ucore Rare Metals Inc. is an advertorial member of InvestorIntel Corp.

This interview, which was produced by InvestorIntel Corp., (IIC), does not contain, nor does it purport to contain, a summary of all the material information concerning the “Company” being interviewed. IIC offers no representations or warranties that any of the information contained in this interview is accurate or complete.

This presentation may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and assumptions of the management of the Company as of the date made. They are inherently susceptible to uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual events/results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that the Company does not know about now or that it currently deems immaterial, may also adversely affect the Company’s business or any investment therein.

Any projections given are principally intended for use as objectives and are not intended, and should not be taken, as assurances that the projected results will be obtained by the Company. The assumptions used may not prove to be accurate and a potential decline in the Company’s financial condition or results of operations may negatively impact the value of its securities. Prospective investors are urged to review the Company’s profile on Sedar.com and to carry out independent investigations in order to determine their interest in investing in the Company.

If you have any questions surrounding the content of this interview, please contact us at +1 416 792 8228 and/or email us direct at [email protected].

What a difference a year makes as we review the reincarnation of the rare earths mining project in California, just across the Nevada border at the Mountain Pass mine – MP Materials Corp. (NYSE: MP), which began trading on the NYSE on November 18, 2020…announces a new rare earths magnet facility and binding long-term agreement with General Motors (GM).

Looking in the rear-view mirror for a moment, “Best Quarter Ever” would be their headline for their Q3-2021 just announced last month. By the numbers from Q3 alone, they should be proud – 98% uptime, steady and sustainable processing cost improvements, 46% margin – all things that point to a great quarter, especially with the increases in rare earths prices in the past 12 months. MP Materials saw a 127% increase in their realized rare earths oxide price compared to Q3-2020.

My phones are ringing, the experts are whispering a wide range of feedback to me as the ‘new and improved’ MP Materials still has many bridges to cross before the trust of those that rode the dusty trails on Mountain Pass previously will be rebuilt. Surely this is a good sign?

The GM deal with MP Materials is to “supply U.S.-sourced and manufactured rare earth materials, alloy and finished magnets for the electric motors in more than a dozen models using GM’s Ultium Platform, with a gradual production ramp that begins in 2023.”

The selection of Fort Worth, Texas as the location for the MP facility will be worthy of many debates but stands a distant second to the issues around securing the talent that can make this dream come true. These obvious challenges aside for a moment, management has delivered in clearly articulating where they are taking this REE program next. They told the market that the announcement of a Stage III facility would be made before the end of 2022 and here it is.

Kudos.

Mountain Pass is the only rare earths mining and processing site of commercial scale in the Western Hemisphere and currently produces approximately 15% of global rare earth content, according to them. The mine has been in production off and on since 1952 but was restarted in 2017. On going public, the MP Materials team highlighted their plan for Stage I (restore production and get the bugs out), Stage II (facilities to produce separated rare earths oxides) and Stage III (rare earths-based magnet production 2025-ish).

Sometimes you have to have a little luck to be good, toss in some deep pockets and MP Materials are reaching for quite a star, but I must confess their timeline is virtually inconceivable to everyone I know. Their original target for magnet production was 2025-ish and zealous. Now management is now saying 2023. In less than 24 months, MP Materials expects to permit and build a 200,000 square foot greenfield facility and commence commercial production of sintered permanent magnets. They also need equipment to do this – hopefully, it has already been ordered, because this is not a run-of-the-mill facility. Creating a sintered Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) permanent magnet is not like building a washing machine, which GM must certainly be aware of. The development of permanent magnets originated in the US, but other than the equipment formerly-owned by Hitachi Metals now acquired by another nascent US rare earth producer, the US has virtually no capacity to produce sintered NdFeB permanent magnets today.

Again, on paper, this looks like an absolutely incredible strategy to re-establish a domestic source of rare earths permanent magnets in NA. Music to many our ears, if they prove they can make this happen. Having been in these trenches for too long, my experience is that the few that have the experience may be counted on one hand, and while MP Materials pockets are deep — it’s going take every bit of their cash to build the magnet facility and get it operational, especially with the Stage II plans for Mountain Pass still to be executed.