#United States #Ramaco Resources #Lexington #Brook Mine #Hatch Ltd

Ramaco Resources and Hatch Ltd Collaboration

Ramaco Resources, Inc., a notable player in the metallurgical coal and mineral sector, has taken a significant step towards advancing its Brook Mine rare earth elements and critical minerals (REE/CM) project. The company recently announced its collaboration with Hatch Ltd., an internationally recognized engineering and consulting firm, to guide the essential Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) of the project. This partnership signals a promising phase in the exploration and development of rare earth minerals in the United States, a sector that has witnessed increasing demand from both government initiatives and commercial interests.

Importance of the Pre-Feasibility Study

The PFS is a crucial analytical phase that integrates test-work, pilot plant design, and process flowsheet optimization. This comprehensive study is intended to assess the economic viability and technical plans necessary for the successful development of the Brook Mine. With Hatch at the helm, the project will leverage expert knowledge in the field, particularly in hydrometallurgy, and solidify its operational framework.

Chairman and CEO of Ramaco, Randall Atkins, expressed his confidence in Hatch's capabilities. He noted that their technical expertise and innovative approach were compelling reasons for the selection during the proposal evaluation phase. The depth of knowledge from Hatch promises invaluable insight as Ramaco looks to accelerate the project’s timeline, particularly in light of rising interest from potential investors and stakeholders.

The Role of Hatch Ltd

Hatch's involvement extends beyond mere oversight; the company will develop and manage an extensive testing program while also coordinating with a variety of external laboratories. Their team comprises seasoned experts from both the United States and Canada, who will work diligently towards creating a pilot plant design that integrates with downstream purification strategies. The PFS being prepared will include capital and operational cost estimates adhering to industry standards.

John Bianchini, Hatch's Chairman and CEO, shared his enthusiasm, stating that this partnership would allow them to apply their vast expertise in rare earth processing to unlock the potential of the Brook Mine resource. The PFS represents a vital stepping stone in crafting a commercially viable strategy for this endeavor, emphasizing both innovation and sustainability.

Project Validation and Next Steps

Ramaco Resources has achieved several groundwork advancements ahead of this study. Significant geological assessments conducted by Weir International Inc. have confirmed the deposit's scale, which boasts an estimated total of 1.7 million tons of total rare earth oxide (TREO). Furthermore, preliminary economic assessments by Fluor Corporation indicate both the technical and commercial feasibility of the project, marking it as the first of its kind in the U.S. since 1952.

The Brook Mine project not only illustrates Ramaco Resources' commitment to mining excellence but also highlights their strategy to integrate advanced technologies with sustainable practices. As they progress, Ramaco anticipates the PFS to serve as a foundational document, crucial for permitting, investment planning, and future offtake agreements.

Ramaco's Broader Vision

Beyond the immediate scope of the Brook Mine, Ramaco operates four active metallurgical coal mining complexes across Central Appalachia. Simultaneously, it is innovating in the field of rare earth and critical minerals in Wyoming. This dual focus aligns with a broader strategic vision of creating a portfolio rich in both traditional and cutting-edge resources, positioning Ramaco as a forward-thinking leader within the mining sector.

With a wealth of intellectual property, including patents and various licensing agreements, Ramaco Resources is not just developing minerals but also paving the way for advanced carbon products derived from coal, showcasing their versatile approach in a rapidly evolving industry.

As the Brook Mine REE/CM project progresses into the next phases with Hatch, all eyes will be on how this collaboration will shape the future landscape of rare earth mining in the United States and contribute to the global discourse on resource sustainability and local economic development.