Critical Metals Corp. (CRML) confirmed that the 2016 AMTEC/ALS metallurgical test work has been successfully replicated at its Tanbreez support refinery joint venture in Romania. The test, completed on December 11, 2025, was independently reviewed by Professor Tony Tang, who verified that the dry magnetic separation route can separate eudialyte, arfvedsonite, and feldspar into high‑grade concentrates.
The dry magnetic separation process, validated by Professor Tang’s review, demonstrates that the Tanbreez Kakortokite ore can be processed at run‑of‑mine conditions to produce concentrates that meet the specifications required for a commercial‑scale refinery. The successful replication of the 2016 test confirms the technical feasibility of the plant design and provides a proven basis for the next phase of development.
A 300‑500 kg/hr proof‑of‑concept pilot plant has been procured for approximately $2 million. The plant is scheduled for commissioning in the second quarter of 2026 and will serve as a design‑validation platform, generating critical data for the eventual commercial‑scale facility and enabling pre‑production concentrate for offtake partners.
On December 9, 2025, CRML executed a 50:50 joint‑venture term sheet with Romania’s Fabrica de Prelucrare a Concentratelor de Uraniu S.R.L. (FPCU). The JV positions CRML as a key player in a Western‑aligned rare‑earth supply chain, addressing European and U.S. demand for secure, high‑grade rare‑earth concentrates, particularly for defense and national‑security applications.
Financially, CRML reported a net loss of CAD 0.57 million for the third quarter and a net loss of CAD 0.13 million for the same period a year earlier, with zero revenue for the year ended June 30, 2025. The company’s focus remains on project development, and the recent milestone is a strategic investment in long‑term capability rather than an immediate revenue driver. Offtake agreements with UCORE (10%) and ReAlloys (15%) already cover 75 % of the anticipated concentrate output, underscoring the commercial traction behind the project.
Investors welcomed the announcement, reflecting confidence in CRML’s strategic direction and the broader geopolitical importance of establishing a European rare‑earth refinery. The successful test work and upcoming pilot plant are seen as critical steps toward realizing the company’s mine‑to‑metals vision and strengthening its position as a potential supplier of high‑grade rare‑earth concentrates to European and U.S. customers.
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