Rare earths contained in IAC are typically more easily extractable, offering significantly lower operating (Opex) and capital costs (Capex). This is due to the simple extraction process, which avoids blasting, crushing, and milling—eliminating the generation of tailings and the need for a tailings storage facility. Instead, the material is amenable to leaching using ammonium sulfate, a common and cost-effective fertilizer. The PCH project contains significant amounts of heavy rare earths needed to meet the ...