Search Minerals Inc. (TSX.V: SMY) (OTC: SHCMF) has taken significant steps to advance its Critical Rare Earth Element (CREE) district in southeastern Labrador by engaging SGS Canada Inc. to conduct a scoping study and metallurgical test work program. The company also announced the appointment of Dr. David Dreisinger as a technical advisor, strengthening its technical team as it progresses its DEEP FOX and FOXTROT projects.
The scoping study, commissioned by Search Minerals, aims to optimize concentrate production and reduce acid demand in the company's proprietary extraction process. This work is critical for future economic studies and project development, as it will provide key data on processing efficiency and cost reduction. The metallurgical test work program will be conducted by SGS, a widely recognized leader in testing and analysis, to support the optimization efforts.
Dr. David Dreisinger, a renowned expert in hydrometallurgy and process development, has been appointed as a technical advisor. His expertise will support Search Minerals' metallurgical and process development efforts, particularly in refining the company's patented Direct Extraction Process technology. This appointment underscores the company's commitment to advancing its rare earth element projects with top-tier technical guidance.
Search Minerals controls a 64-kilometer-long and 2-kilometer-wide belt in the Port Hope Simpson – St. Lewis CREE District of southeastern Labrador. The area is road accessible, on tidewater, and near three local communities, providing logistical advantages. The company has completed a preliminary economic assessment with resource estimates for its FOXTROT and DEEP FOX deposits and is exploring additional prospects along the belt, including FOX MEADOW, SILVER FOX, FOX RUN, and AWESOME FOX.
The company's patented Direct Extraction Process technology has been optimized with support from the Department of Energy and Mines, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency. Two pilot plant operations have already produced highly purified mixed rare earth carbonate concentrate and mixed REO concentrate for separation and refining. The ongoing scoping study and metallurgical work are expected to further enhance this process, potentially reducing costs and improving environmental performance.
This development is important as it moves Search Minerals closer to a definitive feasibility study and eventual production. Rare earth elements are critical for modern technologies, including electric vehicles, wind turbines, and defense systems, and securing domestic supply chains is a priority for many countries. The company's progress in Labrador could contribute to reducing reliance on foreign sources, particularly from China. For more information, visit the company's newsroom at https://ibn.fm/SHCMF.
