Can Locksley’s New US Tech Alliance Break China’s Rare Earth Supply Chain Grip?

Strategic Collaboration to Advance US Critical Minerals Processing

Locksley Resources Limited (ASX – LKY) has formalised a significant research partnership with Columbia University to accelerate the development of advanced, sustainable processing technologies for rare earth elements (REEs) and other critical metals. This collaboration strengthens Locksley’s foothold in the US critical minerals sector, particularly at a time when the US government is intensifying efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains.

The partnership focuses on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) for ore characterisation, innovative electrochemical recovery methods, and CO2-assisted mineral processing. These technologies aim to overcome the limitations of traditional processing methods, offering a more environmentally friendly and efficient approach to extracting critical minerals from the Mountain Pass region in California.

Complementing Existing US Technology Platforms

This new agreement complements Locksley’s existing collaboration with Rice University, which centres on the green DeepSolv™ antimony processing technology. Together, these partnerships create a dual-commodity technology development strategy targeting both rare earths and antimony; two minerals essential for defence, energy storage, and clean technology applications.

Columbia University’s research, led by Professor Greeshma Gadikota, will include detailed mineralogical studies, development of tuneable electrochemical leaching systems with over 80% dissolution efficiency, and the design of selective recovery processes. The program also incorporates techno-economic assessments and life-cycle analyses to ensure the scalability and sustainability of pilot projects.

Alignment with US Government Priorities and Funding

The collaboration aligns closely with recent US Department of Energy (DOE) initiatives, including a $355 million funding package aimed at boosting domestic critical minerals production and sustainable mining technologies. Locksley and Columbia University are jointly pursuing funding opportunities under DOE and Department of the Interior programs, such as the ARPA-E and Mines of the Future initiatives, to support pilot-scale development and field deployment.

This strategic positioning places Locksley among a select group of Australian-listed companies actively advancing US-based critical minerals processing technologies, reinforcing its role in supporting American supply chain independence.

Next Steps and Market Implications

In the coming months, Locksley will ship ore samples from its Mojave Project to Columbia for advanced analysis and initiate governance meetings to establish program parameters and intellectual property protocols. Monthly coordination will ensure alignment between academic research and Locksley’s commercial objectives.

With the Mojave Project’s proximity to established mining operations and its significant antimony and rare earth potential, this collaboration could accelerate the development of scalable, low-impact processing pathways that meet growing US demand for critical minerals.