Quantum Critical Metals Achieves 93% Gallium Recovery from Mica, Paving Way for North American Supply
Quantum Critical Metals Corp. has achieved a 93% gallium recovery rate from mica samples, potentially establishing a new domestic source for the critical metal amid China's export controls and strengthening Western supply chain security.
Quantum Critical Metals Corp. has reported a 93% gallium recovery rate from preliminary bench-scale metallurgical test work on mica samples from its NMX East Project in Québec's James Bay region. This breakthrough indicates the potential for mica to become a significant new source of gallium, a critical metal essential for semiconductors, 5G technology, defense systems, and renewable energy applications.
Traditionally, gallium is recovered as a byproduct of bauxite or zinc processing, making Quantum one of the first companies to demonstrate successful direct recovery from mica. The company's early focus on metallurgical optimization and critical metal extraction positions it as a front-runner in developing domestic gallium supply. This discovery strengthens Canada's strategic role in securing Western access to essential materials amid global supply disruptions caused by China's export controls on gallium.
Marcy Kiesman, CEO of Quantum Critical Metals Corp., stated that the 93% recovery represents a strategically significant milestone. The next important step will involve validating the process at scale to establish Canada as a domestic gallium supplier for North America. A domestic gallium supply would reduce reliance on Chinese exports and position Quantum as a key player in the critical metals value chain to strengthen Western national security.
The NMX East project, 100% owned by Quantum, has historically been explored for lithium potential in pegmatites. Quantum has recently been studying gallium association within the pegmatite to determine extraction feasibility. The site is strategically located near Power Metallic Mines Inc., which announced an expanded land position near its Nisk-Lion-Tiger polymetallic discoveries. A recent land acquisition of 167 km² from Li-FT Power Ltd. highlighted regional development and underscores the broader area's potential for polymetallic exploration.
George M. Yordanov, P.Geo., a consultant to the company, served as the Qualified Person who reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure. Quantum Critical Metals Corp. maintains additional information through regulatory filings available at www.sedarplus.com and corporate updates at www.quantumcriticalmetals.com.