Locksley Resources Limited (ASX: LKY) has reported successful laboratory test results from its collaboration with Rice University, aimed at developing a cleaner domestic processing pathway for antimony. Using the university’s proprietary DeepSolv™ hydrometallurgical technology, the team successfully upgraded raw ore samples from the Mojave project containing 9–12% antimony into products grading up to 93% antimony. The testing process also demonstrated that antimony concentrates—initially grading 65–70%—could be refined into products reaching 91–96% purity.

Beyond simple leaching, the laboratory work achieved two significant technical objectives: the recovery of high-purity antimony oxide and the production of metallic antimony through electrodeposition. This breakthrough indicates that the DeepSolv™ process could potentially manage an integrated circuit from initial ore dissolution through to the creation of finished, high-value antimony metal. By bypassing traditional high-temperature smelting, the technology is being positioned as a lower-impact, more flexible alternative for handling U.S.-sourced mineral feedstocks.

"These latest results represent another important technical milestone in our collaboration with Rice University. They demonstrate that DeepSolv™ processing technology has the potential to unlock a cleaner and more flexible antimony recovery pathway."

— Kerrie Matthews, Managing Director

Looking ahead, the collaboration is moving from basic validation toward process optimization. The next phase of the program will focus on refining the underlying chemistry, improving solvent recyclability, and establishing deposition rates for the metallic product. The project team is also currently evaluating equipment requirements for the next stage of development, which will involve pilot-scale testing. This includes the assessment of reactor and filtration systems designed to handle larger volumes of material. By scaling these processes, the company intends to further demonstrate the commercial viability of using the Mojave feedstock for domestic processing.

Read the full announcement: Locksley Advances Antimony Recovery with Rice University