Critical minerals move fast when geology, chemistry and execution align. We sit down with Dr Mark Cooksey, Managing Director and CEO of ABx Group, to unpack how the company plans to bring heavy rare earths and clean fluorine chemicals to market while capturing value from proven bauxite assets.
First, we break down why ABx’s Tasmanian ionic clay resource matters: cleaner leaching, fewer process steps and a mixed rare earth carbonate with higher proportions of dysprosium and terbium, the workhorses behind high‑temperature permanent magnets. Mark explains how collaboration with ANSTO strengthens metallurgy from bench to larger test scales, and how a new exploration licence in northern Tasmania bridges existing leases, supports resource growth and deepens understanding of the geological controls behind the ionic clay system.
We then shift to fluorine. With fluorspar supply tightening and fluorine recognised as a critical input for semiconductors, fluoropolymers and refrigerants, ABx is developing a process to convert a surplus aluminium smelter byproduct into hydrogen fluoride. The pilot plant at Bell Bay, Tasmania, leased within a Rio Tinto facility, is designed for fast learning: build over the next six months, then run to generate performance data and samples for customers. Alongside, ABx advances bauxite projects through agreements with GII in Queensland and New South Wales, progressing environmental approvals and option studies, while a smaller Tasmanian bauxite operation targets early 2026.
Across the conversation, Mark lays out clear FY26 priorities: finalise metallurgy and engineering for a right‑sized rare earths start‑up, advance commercial talks for premium MREC, complete and operate the fluorine pilot, and drive bauxite approvals toward near‑term cash flow. If you care about heavy rare earths, fluorine supply chains, and practical, local execution in Australia, this is a timely look at where the market is heading and how ABx plans to lead.
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