The proposal for developing a rare metal cluster in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)

The studies conducted as part of the KNI-2 regional complex scientific research in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) focused on analyzing both global and domestic markets for rare metal raw materials. The findings revealed that, in addition to the well-known group of rare earth metals (REM) and rare earth elements (REE) from the unique “Tomtor” deposit, lithium extracted from hydromineral brines and tungsten sourced from the Agylkinskoye deposit are also highly sought after. To improve project efficiency and facilitate the production of high-quality products in Yakutia, we propose a model for the establishment of a consolidated rare metal cluster within the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). This model includes three principal initiatives: the extraction of lithium from hydromineral resources, particularly the brines associated with the “Udachnaya” pipe; the extraction of rare earth metals, such as niobium and scandium (and potentially manganese), from the ores located at the Tomtor deposit; and the development of the Agylkinskoye deposit for the production of tungsten concentrate. The first two projects are planned for implementation in the Mirninsky and Oleneksky districts of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). These projects will focus on the production of various chemical reagents, including caustic soda, chlorine, or hydrochloric acid, utilizing local resources. Selective sorbents, either of domestic origin (such as Axionite) or produced in China, may be employed for the extraction of lithium. The resultant commercial product will be lithium carbonate, which is intended for future distribution within the Russian Federation (for instance, to the KhMZ in Krasnoyarsk) or for export to China. The primary chemical treatment of Tomtor ore to produce commercially viable industrial products, such as pyrochlore concentrate and solutions enriched with REM and scandium, can be achieved through alkaline opening using locally produced reagents. This process is followed by the application of selective sorbents to extract rare earth compounds. The proposed metallurgical cluster in the southern region of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) represents a substantial opportunity for the advancement of rare metal production. The establishment of pyrometallurgical facilities within this cluster could significantly enhance the production of various ferroalloy products, including ferrotungsten, ferroniobium, and ferromanganese. These materials are essential for the production of high-quality steel, particularly in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).