Massive Critical Minerals Deposit Discovered in Utah

Massive Critical Minerals Deposit Validates U.S. Resource Potential

Ionic Mineral Technologies (Ionic MT) discovered a major rare earth and critical minerals deposit at Silicon Ridge, Utah. Importantly, the deposit is halloysite-hosted ion-adsorption clay (IAC); consequently, it allows faster and cleaner extraction compared to conventional hard-rock mining. Initial assays reveal high grades of rare earths and elements like gallium, lithium, vanadium, and niobium. The find represents a significant step toward domestic supply independence for strategic minerals in the U.S.

The Silicon Ridge site spans 650 acres and includes over 106 boreholes and 35 trenches analyzed by ALS Chemex laboratories. Current results cover only 11% of the resource, suggesting substantial potential for expansion. The deposit hosts multiple critical elements used in AI, defense, energy, and semiconductor applications.

Rapid Production Timeline Enabled by Permits and Facilities

Ionic MT already holds mining permits and operates a 74,000-square-foot processing facility in Provo, Utah. This enables a rapid timeline from exploration to commercial production. The company plans a vertically integrated approach, converting halloysite clay into critical minerals, high-purity alumina, and nano-silicon.

The preliminary economic assessment (PEA) is underway, with completion expected in the first half of 2026. Citigroup has been engaged as a market adviser to support commercialization and strategic offtake negotiations. CEO Andre Zeitoun calls the project a “watershed moment” for U.S. mineral independence.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The Silicon Ridge discovery strengthens U.S. resilience in critical minerals supply, reducing reliance on Chinese ion-adsorption clays. If fully developed, the deposit could supply high-grade rare earths for defense, energy, and technology sectors. Market participants should watch PEA results closely, as the co-product strategy could reshape domestic mineral pricing and supply chains.