Mt Edon Rubidium Processing Advances Pilot Plant Development

• Direct Rubidium Extraction (DRE) metallurgical testwork achieved up to 90% rubidium recovery
• Reduced water use by 60% and enabled leaching at room temperature
• Bipolar membrane electrodialysis technology removes processing chemicals while retaining rubidium
• Manufacture of in-house DRE purification reagent validated
• Focus on pilot plant development to scale up the process

Everest Metals Corporation Ltd (ASX: EMC) reports further advancements in the development of rubidium extraction and purification technology for its Mt Edon Critical Mineral Project in Western Australia. The company, supported by Edith Cowan University (ECU) and government grants, has achieved up to 90% rubidium recovery from Mt Edon materials through batch roasting and water leaching. The process optimization reduced water use by 60%, enabling leaching at room temperature, and lowered energy requirements. Bipolar membrane electrodialysis, incorporating Everest Metals' patent-pending technology, removes processing chemicals while retaining rubidium, allowing the solution to be recycled. The manufacture of the in-house DRE purification reagent has been validated, and equipment and components are being commissioned to supply future pilot plant construction.

The company is focused on moving from bench-scale laboratory results to a consistent, repeatable process at a larger scale. A robust, commercially viable processing pathway is key to unlocking Mt Edon and establishing an Australian source of rubidium products.