The 2011 technical report describes a project at an early exploration stage with no specific recovery method information.
Report context
The Chambe Basin technical report, dated 2011, addresses a preliminary stage of exploration. The report states that no specific information on any recovery method is appropriate at this time. No consideration has been given to project infrastructure. Market studies or contracts for possible mineral products have not been made. No environmental studies have been completed, though initial environmental studies are part of the current exploration phase. Permitting is not required for current activities. No estimation of capital and operating costs has been made. The report notes that there is insufficient data to carry out an economic analysis.
Processing route
Recovery methods
At this preliminary stage of exploration no specific information on any recovery method is appropriate, but would likely involve ion exchange of loosely-held rare earth elements by dilute aqueous solutions. The report provides no further detail on proposed design or testwork.
Project infrastructure
No consideration has yet been given to project infrastructure. The report notes the necessity of rehabilitating the existing cableway, or some other means of transporting material and people to and from the basin should the project prove encouraging.
Key reported parameters
| Parameter | Reported value or status | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Recovery method | No specific information appropriate; likely ion exchange of REE by dilute aqueous solutions | Proposed design |
| Project infrastructure | No consideration yet given | Not applicable |
| Market studies | Not made | Not applicable |
| Environmental studies | Not yet made (initial studies part of current phase) | Not applicable |
| Permitting | Not required for current activities | Not applicable |
| Capital and operating costs | No estimation made | Not applicable |
| Economic analysis | Not made due to insufficient data | Not applicable |
Project website: https://www.mindat.org/feature-931493.html
Technical qualifications
The report explicitly states that at this preliminary stage of exploration no specific information on any recovery method is appropriate. No estimation of capital and operating costs has been made or is appropriate at the present preliminary stage of exploration. At this early stage there is insufficient data to carry out an economic analysis and none has been made. No environmental studies have yet been made. Market studies or contracts for possible mineral products have not been made. No consideration has yet been given to project infrastructure.
Source: Chambe Basin , 2011 Technical Report, sections 17–22.
