Lynas Rare Earths has commenced the final stage four commissioning for its new Kalgoorlie rare earths processing facility.
Stage four commissioning involves reagents and feedstock being introduced, including the first feed of lanthanide concentrate. Stage one to three involved preparing, testing and certifying key production equipment for use.
Chemical and wet circuits will be fed with rare earth carbonate from Lynas Malaysia, which will allow for the completion of stage four.
Major earthworks including ponds, water and laboratory facilities will also be completed during this time.
According to Lynas, stage four commissioning is on track for completion by 30 June, with the exception of two critical path items – the waste gas treatment plant and on site gas supply.
Lynas secured the sub lease for the facility back in August 2020, describing the site as a “foundation project” for the Lynas 2025 growth vision.
“Securing the sub-lease for our new Kalgoorlie rare earth processing facility is another important milestone for our Kalgoorlie project and we thank the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and the Western Australian Government for their strong support,” Lynas chief executive and managing director Amanda Lacaze said at the time.
“This is a significant project for Kalgoorlie and for the state of Western Australia and it will provide the foundation for a critical minerals processing hub in the Goldfields region of Western Australia.
“It is our intention to have a residential workforce and we will prioritise local and mid-sized suppliers during the construction of the facility.”