ANSTO Grants Non-Radioactive Status to Lindian's Malawi Rare Earths Project
In a significant development for the mining sector, Australia's National Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) has independently tested representative samples from Lindian Resources' Kangankunde rare earths project in Malawi. The analysis has determined that the monazite concentrate is exempt from radioactive transport classification under the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) SSR-6 framework.
Key Findings from Gamma Spectrometry Analysis
ANSTO conducted high-resolution gamma spectrometry on two representative samples, revealing that uranium and thorium activity concentrations are well below IAEA exemption thresholds. Additionally, actinium‑227 was found to be below detection limits. This clearance means that shipments from the Kangankunde project will not be subject to Class 7 dangerous goods requirements, eliminating the need for specialised packaging, restricted carriers, or additional regulatory oversight.
This exemption provides Kangankunde with a clear competitive advantage over many rival rare earths projects, where higher radiation levels necessitate tougher transport rules, early-stage radionuclide stripping, and substantial compliance costs.
Consistency with Previous Testwork and Market Implications
The findings align with earlier ANSTO metallurgical testwork, which confirmed ultra-low radionuclide levels in both the concentrate and the mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC), along with a 97 per cent extraction rate for neodymium and praseodymium (NdPr). Together, these results demonstrate a low-radiological pathway from feedstock to final product, reinforcing Kangankunde's position as a scalable, lower-risk development.
Zac Komur, executive director of Lindian Resources, commented, "Independent verification from ANSTO provides clear confirmation of the radiological profile of our Kangankunde concentrate and materially de-risks our pathway to market. ANSTO's determination that the product is exempt from SSR-6 radioactive transport classification is a significant structural advantage."
Storage and Strategic Benefits
The low intrinsic radioactivity also offers storage advantages, allowing practical stockpiling for more than 20 years under standard industrial conditions. Unlike higher-radioactivity products that require rushed processing through licensed facilities, Kangankunde can be stored long-term, providing Lindian with valuable inventory flexibility. This aligns the project with emerging sovereign critical minerals stockpiling strategies, enhancing its appeal in the global supply chain.
As Lindian advances towards stage one plant construction, with first production targeted for late 2026, the ANSTO validation represents a crucial de-risking milestone. This development not only streamlines logistics but also positions Kangankunde as a more attractive option for investors and partners in the competitive rare earths market.
