Andromeda Metals Ltd (ASX:ADN, OTC:ANDMF) has validated its high-purity Great White CRM™ kaolin product for industrial use in ceramic glaze formulations, following successful large-scale pilot trials conducted at a ceramic frit and glaze producer in Alcora, Spain. The trials confirmed Great White CRM™ as a premium-quality material capable of enhancing critical glaze characteristics, including whiteness, adhesion and cohesion.
The results could unlock new commercial opportunities for Andromeda, particularly within the Southern European ceramic manufacturing sector, and build on previous certifications for high-end ceramics and countertops.
The company intends to use the findings to support offtake engagement and progress funding arrangements for the Stage 1A+ development of the Great White Project.
“The successful trials validate Great White CRM™ as a reliable, high-performance material for ceramic manufacturers, delivering sought-after properties such as improved adhesion of the glazes and higher whiteness when fired,” Andromeda’s acting chief executive officer Sarah Clarke said.
Pilot trials confirm industrial compatibility
The pilot-scale trials were carried out under industrial conditions using the facilities of a Spanish ceramic frit and glaze manufacturer, supervised by the Institute of Ceramic Technology (ITC) and Galesk Consultancy.
Two glaze formulations were tested:
- A glossy white glaze for single-fired wall tiles (8.3% kaolin content)
- A matt “smaltobbio” glaze for porcelain tiles (22% kaolin content)
Both tests compared Great White CRM™ against the industry benchmark kaolin commonly used by glaze manufacturers in Southern Europe.
The trials demonstrated significant improvements in glaze performance, particularly in adhesion and whiteness. The unfired glaze layer bonded more securely to substrates, reducing the risk of chipping or peeling. Enhanced whiteness and a cleaner colour profile were also observed, especially important for high-end tile products.
Test tiles fired in an industrial kiln (Source: Pamesa).
“The positive results from the trials can now be used to market the high-quality products from the Great White Project for use in ceramic glaze formulations, expanding the range of uses and potential customers for Great White CRM™,” Clarke said.
“These positive results open up additional sales opportunities, supporting future potential expansion, while the company progresses finalising the binding financing documentation for a debt facility with Merricks Capital and securing the balance of funding necessary to support a final investment decision for the Stage 1A+ development of the Great White Project.”
Performance enhancements demonstrated
Key performance results included:
- Adhesion and cohesion: Glazes using Great White CRM™ required greater force for detachment (17 Newtons for glossy and 69 Newtons for matt glazes) compared to benchmark products.
- Whiteness (L)**: Glossy tiles using Andromeda’s kaolin achieved L 92.1 (vs 91.4), while matt tiles scored L* 80.1 (vs 78.5).
- Reduced chromatic impurities: Lower a* (red-green) and b* (yellow-blue) values indicated a cleaner, cooler tone — favourable for modern design preferences.
- Improved gloss and finish: Gloss readings were competitive across measurement angles (60° and 20° for glossy; 60° and 85° for matt), supporting aesthetic appeal.
The data was compiled in two ITC reports (C244023 and C245295) and confirmed Great White CRM™’s suitability for industrial-scale production of high-performance ceramic glazes.
Strategic implications and next steps
The findings position Andromeda for broader engagement with ceramic glaze manufacturers and support continued development of the Great White Project.
The company is currently progressing final binding debt documentation with Merricks Capital and pursuing the remaining funding required to support a final investment decision for Stage 1A+ development.