Aclara Resources Inc (TSX:ARA, OTC:ARAAF) announced it has received a second patent for its innovative process aimed at extracting heavy rare earths in an environmentally sustainable manner.
The patent, granted in Chile and valid for 20 years, marks a significant milestone for the company's unique Circular Mineral Harvesting (CMH) process.
Developed by Aclara, CMH offers a different approach to rare earth extraction by eliminating the need for crushing or milling, while boasting an impressive environmental profile.
Notable features include the recirculation of 95% of water used, along with 99% reagent recycling efficiency, significantly reducing resource consumption and waste generation. Moreover, the process avoids the necessity for liquid residues and tailings dams, thereby mitigating environmental impact.
Calling the new patent “a great milestone for Aclara,” COO Barry Murphy told investors that the company is on track to become the cleanest source of heavy rare earths in the world.
“This patent underscores our commitment to innovation in the Rare Earths industry. Our team's ongoing dedication to advancing environmental standards goes hand in hand with our continuous efforts to optimize both CAPEX and OPEX, solidifying our leadership in responsible resource extraction."
CMH has been successfully tested at Aclara's Pilot Plant in Concepcion, Chile, with ionic clays sourced from the company's Chilean and Brazilian projects.
Expected to yield approximately 10 kilograms of high-purity heavy rare earths concentrate for commercial use, the results of this piloting campaign are anticipated in the coming month.