Australasian Metals Limited has revealed exciting developments at its May Queen South Bauxite Project, highlighting significant opportunities in metallurgical processing and critical mineral extraction. The company's recent re-evaluation of historical metallurgical tests has unveiled promising pathways for ore processing and valuable mineral recovery.

A key breakthrough comes from the potential hydrometallurgical treatment route for the Monogriliby bauxite ore. The company is exploring the use of hydrochloric acid or citric acid as primary reagents, which could open new avenues for mineral extraction. While additional test work is required to determine precise recovery rates and material purity, this approach could prove transformative for the project's economic potential.

Of particular interest are the elevated levels of gallium (Ga) and germanium (Ge) discovered in the project area. Building on a 2016 metallurgical report that initially identified gallium content, the company conducted a comprehensive re-assay using the ALS ME-MS85 method. The results are compelling: an average gallium content of 67.59g/t across 12 randomly selected samples, with a peak value reaching an impressive 145.5g/t Ga.

The timing of these discoveries couldn't be more opportune. Gallium has experienced a dramatic price surge, driven by increasing demand from semiconductor and electronics industries. Currently, China dominates nearly 98% of global gallium production, and recent export controls have propelled prices from $422.70 per kg in 2021 to over $900 per kg in 2024. Preliminary metallurgical testwork conducted at Core Resources' laboratory in Brisbane has already shown promise. Using a 25 to 50 kg bulk sample, initial tests focused on size reduction, scrubbing, and sizing to evaluate the potential for producing a premium-quality Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) product.

The company's next steps are strategic and thorough. Planned activities include:

•              Conducting further testing with a more representative sample

•              Validating initial results with greater confidence

•              Exploring process optimization options

•              Assessing potential TiO2 recovery from a 'reject' stream

Additionally, Australasian Metals is actively pursuing sample archival from previous owner Atlantic Lithium Limited. If sample pulps are in good condition, the company intends to re-analyse them to estimate Ga and Ge content within the existing Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE). The company is also leveraging its network in downstream processing and product offtake, particularly in Asia, to explore potential partnerships and market opportunities.

These developments underscore Australasian Metals' commitment to unlocking the full potential of the May Queen South Bauxite Project, with a keen focus on critical minerals that are increasingly vital in high-tech applications.