Steenkampskraal Monazite Mine has initiated Site Refurbishment and On-Site Laboratory Construction. The facility will enable Steenkampskraal to fine-tune the MGS process, which is essential for producing high-quality monazite concentrate
In South Africa, Steenkampskraal Monazite Mine (SMM), a key player in the rare earth sector and one of the world’s highest grade rare earths and thorium mines, has launched a significant phase of its development that marks the construction of a new on-site laboratory and a comprehensive refurbishment and reclamation programme.
“The laboratory, one of the cornerstones of the initiative, is set to enhance the mine’s ability to refine its innovative concentration processes, ensuring operational efficiency and supporting long-term sustainability goals,” explains Graham Soden, CEO of SMM.
“The project underscores Steenkampskraal’s commitment to advancing rare earth production responsibly, with a focus on optimising the extraction of monazite concentrate through a process called Multi Gravity Separation (MGS) and a subsequent hydrometallurgical cracking process to produce mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC), thorium and Radium-228.”
He says the on-site laboratory will serve as a critical hub for testing and improving the mine’s processing techniques. Focusing on conventional gravity and flotation concentration methods. The facility will enable Steenkampskraal to fine-tune the MGS process, which is essential for producing high-quality monazite concentrate.
“In addition, having the laboratory on-site offers several practical advantages: it allows for immediate analysis and adjustments during the concentration process, minimising downtime and reducing the need for off-site testing. This close proximity also facilitates real-time data collection, enabling the mine’s technical team to make informed decisions quickly, which is vital for optimising resource use and reducing operational costs.”
“Furthermore, the laboratory will support Steenkampskraal’s broader sustainability objectives by helping to streamline processes, thereby reducing waste and improving the efficiency of rare earth extraction. This is a critical factor in meeting global demand for these materials, essential for technologies ranging from renewable energy systems to advanced defense electronics,” he adds.
Enock Mathebula, Executive Chairman of Steenkampskraal Monazite Mine, notes, “The on-site laboratory will be instrumental in refining our processing techniques, ensuring we meet our operational targets efficiently. Combined with the safety infrastructure we’ve put in place, we’re creating a secure and productive environment for this project.”
Steenkampskraal has appointed Vetus Schola as the full-time safety and security service provider, ensuring 24/7 protection for personnel and assets. To bolster emergency preparedness, a 4×4 vehicle equipped with a fire-fighting skid-unit has been deployed on-site.
Health and safety measures have also been enhanced with ER24 stationing a fully equipped 4×4 ambulance at the site, supported by a first-responder emergency room and a team of qualified paramedics available during working hours to provide immediate medical assistance if needed.
