KUANTAN: Lynas Malaysia will increase its existing R&D investment to remove naturally-occurring radioactive material (NORM) from residues under its updated operating licence.
Australian rare earth materials producer Lynas Rare Earths said its wholly-owned Malaysian subsidiary would increase this investment in Malaysia from 0.5% to 1% of Lynas Malaysia’s gross sales.
"The R&D programme will be overseen by the Malaysian Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB) and will be directed towards developing methods for removal of NORM from residues.
"Lynas will manage the R&D investment funds and dedicate senior scientists to progress developments alongside researchers from leading Malaysian institutions," the company said.
It said this in a statement on Tuesday (Oct 24) following the announcement that Lynas Malaysia had been issued with a variation to its operating licence.
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The updated licence allows the continued importation and processing of lanthanide concentrate from Lynas' Mt Weld mine in Western Australia at the Lynas Malaysia facility, valid until March 2, 2026.
Lynas said that as announced on Oct 20, Lynas will proceed with capital works to expand downstream separation capacity to approximately 10,500 tonnes per annum of neodymium-praseodymium.
"Tie-in works for the downstream separation capacity uplift are expected to be completed during December.Lynas forecasts lower production rates during the March 2024 quarter as the circuits stabilise in the new format,” it said.
"During the (quarter beginning) March 2024, Lynas expects maximum production rates of approximately 300 tonnes per month, growing to 750 tonnes per month in the June quarter," added the company.
Lynas chief executive officer and managing director Amanda Lacaze lauded the operating licence decision, saying that it would provide a strong foundation for the rare earths industry development in Malaysia.
"As the leading producer of rare earths outside of China, Malaysia plays an important role in the global rare earths supply chain.
"This decision provides a strong foundation for further development of the Malaysian rare earths industry.
"Lynas deeply values our people and communities in Malaysia who recognise that Lynas Malaysia is an excellent employer and a safe and responsible community member, as demonstrated by our over 10 years of safe operation.
"Lynas thanks our people and our local communities for their ongoing support. Lynas has invested over RM3bil in Malaysia over the past 12 years and contributed over RM4.8bil to Malaysia’s GDP.
"We look forward to continuing to contribute to the development of the rare earths industry in Malaysia," she said.
