US Critical Materials finds high-grade rare-earth deposit
US Critical Materials Corp. has announced the discovery of the highest-grade rare-earth deposit in the United States, located in Montana. The deposit has confirmed levels of nearly 9% total rare-earth oxide (TREO), making it the largest and highest-grade deposit in the country, with a potential multibillion-dollar resource value.
The deposit contains 12 essential critical minerals, including neodymium and praseodymium, essential for the green economy. US Critical Materials aims to supply the US government, industry, and consumers with the critical minerals they need, while reducing dependence on imports from China. The company is working with a national laboratory to develop efficient and environmentally safe refining processes and is currently assessing its next steps, including financing and business development opportunities.
“We have confirmed that Sheep Creek is the highest-grade rare-earth deposit in the United States, with a multibillion-dollar resource value,” stated Jim Hedrick, US Critical Materials President, and former rare-earth Commodity Specialist at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). US Critical Materials has nearly 9 % TREO (89,932ppm), far ahead of any other domestic rare earth resource. The deposit also has readings of 2.4% (23,810ppm) combined neodymium and praseodymium, which are both essential for the green economy. US Critical Materials has recently confirmed carbonatite mineralization at depth, below high-grade surface samples of 17.05% TREO and 16.44% TREO. The Sheep Creek, Montana, property under claim by US Critical Materials totals seven (7) square miles.
