SRC and Defense Metals Sign MOU for Rare Earths Processing in Canada
SRC (Saskatchewan Research Council) and Defense Metals Corp have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the processing of rare earth elements in Canada. This partnership brings together SRC’s expertise in mineral processing and Defense Metals Corp’s Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project to advance the development of a domestic rare earth supply chain.
Defense Metals Corp’s Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project located in British Columbia is considered one of North America’s most significant rare earth deposits. The project has shown promising results with high-grade resources and favorable metallurgy, making it a strategic asset for the domestic production of rare earth elements.
SRC, a leading research and technology organization in Saskatchewan, offers a wide range of services in mineral processing, metallurgy, and environmental studies. Through this collaboration, SRC will provide its expertise and facilities to support Defense Metals Corp in optimizing the processing of rare earth elements from the Wicheeda Project.
The MOU between SRC and Defense Metals Corp signifies a significant step towards establishing a domestic rare earth supply chain in Canada. By leveraging SRC’s capabilities in mineral processing and Defense Metals Corp’s high-grade resource at the Wicheeda Project, the partnership aims to enhance the economic and strategic value of rare earth elements in the country.
The processing of rare earth elements is a critical aspect of their production, as it involves complex metallurgical processes to extract and refine these valuable minerals. With SRC’s specialized knowledge and infrastructure, Defense Metals Corp can benefit from optimized processing techniques that may lead to increased efficiencies and cost savings.
Moreover, establishing a domestic supply chain for rare earth elements is of strategic importance for Canada’s economic growth and national security. By reducing dependency on foreign sources, the country can enhance its self-sufficiency in critical minerals and strengthen its position in the global rare earth market.
In conclusion, the collaboration between SRC and Defense Metals Corp represents a significant advancement in the development of a domestic rare earth supply chain in Canada. By combining their expertise and resources, the two organizations are poised to unlock the full potential of the Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project and contribute to the growth of Canada’s rare earth industry.
