Following the latest ASX announcement, Red Metal Limited (ASX: RDM) has reported promising metallurgical results from its 100%-owned Sybella Rare Earths Project in northwest Queensland. The recent pH optimisation testwork supports the potential for a low-cost, ambient temperature heap leach process, advancing development opportunities at the Kary Zone.
View the full ASX announcement here or read the summary below.
Key Testwork Highlights
Metallurgical testwork, carried out by Core Resources, has confirmed:
- High rare earth recoveries at reduced acid conditions (pH 2.0–2.5)
- Low acid consumption between 17–22 kg/t
- Natural removal of iron impurities within the heap, reducing the need for downstream purification
These results demonstrate that a simplified heap leach flowsheet is achievable for Sybella’s weathered granite-hosted rare earth mineralisation. The in-heap removal of iron is particularly significant, providing a built-in purification mechanism during the leaching stage.
Core’s Role
Core Resources has worked closely with Red Metal to design and deliver a pH optimisation program using Intermittent Bottle Roll Testing (IBRT). The goal: to assess the optimal acid conditions for rare earth recovery while minimising reagent use and simplifying downstream processing.
By identifying a lower acid set point that still achieves strong recoveries, Core has helped establish a more sustainable and commercially attractive processing route for the Sybella Project.
Looking Ahead
With these promising results in hand, Red Metal will now move into column leach testing using recently drilled PQ diamond core. This next phase will provide further insights into long-term recovery potential and help simulate real-world heap leach conditions.
Core Resources is proud to support Red Metal as the company continues to explore scalable, efficient options for unlocking value from this large-tonnage rare earth deposit.
Want to learn more about how Core supports innovative rare earth projects like Sybella?
Visit our Leaching Testwork Services page or get in touch with our team to discuss your project needs.
