• Enters research collaboration with Columbia University to develop advanced, sustainable REE processing technologies
• Integrates AI-driven ore characterization, innovative electrochemical recovery, and CO2 assisted mineral processing
• Complements Locksley's existing green antimony processing partnership with Rice University

Locksley Resources Ltd (ASX: LKY) has announced a research collaboration with Columbia University to develop an integrated technology platform for the advanced characterization, recovery, and separation of REEs and transition metals from carbonatite, monazite, and silicate ores within the Clark Mountain District. The project includes detailed mineralogical and compositional studies of REE-bearing ores, creation of tuneable electrochemical and CO2 assisted leaching systems for high dissolution efficiency, and integration of techno-economic assessment and life-cycle analysis to identify scalable, low-impact pilot pathways. This collaboration expands Locksley's established U.S. technology platform alongside its partnership with Rice University on green antimony processing, broadening the company's U.S. university partnerships to encompass both antimony and rare earth elements. The research focus aligns closely with the technical and strategic priorities of several major federally funded U.S. initiatives, including the Department of Energy's recent $355 million funding announcement. Locksley and Columbia are jointly pursuing DOE and DoW funding pathways for process development and pilot-scale demonstration, leveraging Columbia's track record of commercialization.

The collaboration with Columbia University expands Locksley's U.S. research partnerships into rare earths, complementing the company's DeepSolv™ DES work with Rice University on antimony. Together, these programs significantly strengthen the technical foundation of Locksley's U.S. Mine-to-Market strategy and broaden the company's exposure to emerging American-developed processing technologies.