Mobility of nominally immobile elements in hydrothermal and weathering environments: implications for exploration and mineral processing

The Challenge

Western Australia’s critical minerals offer major economic opportunity, but unconventional rare earth element (REE) deposits and knowledge gaps around rare earth mobility and mineral hosts threaten exploration success. Without further research and new science-led processing strategies, many Australian rare earth resources may remain uneconomic.

Proposed Solution

Using the Jupiter REE deposit near Cue as a case study, this project will apply Curtin University’s world-class analytical facilities to interrogate rare earth mineralogy and element deportment, and test new efficient extraction pathways. By investigating deposit genesis, weathering controls, and bio-leaching potential, the project aims to improve exploration targeting and develop more effective, lower-impact processing strategies for Jupiter and similar Australian REE resources.

Proposed Benefits to WA

This project can unlock value at Jupiter, create jobs and investment in Western Australia, and advance greener, lower-cost rare earth extraction. Its outcomes will support development of similar complex deposits, strengthen mining competitiveness, and accelerate the transition to a lower-impact, decarbonised economy.

DOI

10.71342/346008811146