Steenkampskraal Monazite Mine (SMM) has begun construction of its new monazite processing plant with a soil-turning event, marking a significant step in its phased development plan.
This development positions South Africa as a prospective producer of high-grade monazite concentrate, a vital feedstock for rare earth elements that are crucial for various sectors including renewable energy and defence technologies.
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Situated in the Western Cape, SMM is owned by Steenkampskraal Holdings in collaboration with Bora Mining Investments.
The project is fully permitted and set to contribute significantly to global critical mineral supply chains.
Recent advancements at the site include the commissioning of an on-site laboratory.
SMM has also produced monazite concentrate from its metallurgical circuit for the first time in more than 60 years.
The processing plant, situated near the current underground decline shaft exit, will receive monazite-rich ore through a conveyor belt system.
This ore will be moved from underground to the surface plant, where it will undergo initial concentration using established gravity separation and flotation methods.
SMM CEO Graham Soden said: “The initial product has demonstrated approximately 50% total rare earth oxide (TREO) content, confirming the high-grade nature of the deposit.
“In parallel, the mine’s hydrometallurgical laboratory circuit is currently undergoing optimisation. Early results have been encouraging, with production of mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC) and cracked thorium anticipated in the near term.
“This phase will use proven gravity separation and flotation technology, optimised through modern refinements and pilot testing by the Saskatchewan Research Council and Mintek.”
Once operational, the facility aims to achieve an output of approximately 13,400 tonnes per annum (tpa) of monazite concentrate containing more than 50% TREO.
The production will begin at approximately 6,600tpa during the initial ramp-up phase, with plans to reach full capacity by the end of the first year.
