Viridion Considers US Rare Earth Refinery to Boost Supply Chains

Viridion

Viridion Evaluates Refining Expansion in US and Brazil

Brazilian rare earth producer Viridion is weighing the construction of a rare earth refinery in the United States alongside a magnet refining and recycling facility in Brazil. Viridion is a joint venture between Australia’s Viridis Mining and Minerals and Ionic Rare Earths (IonicRE). The initiative follows recent funding support under Brazil’s $1.4bn Strategic Minerals Transformation Initiative, led by the National Bank for Economic and Social Development.

An internal study suggested that a proposed US refinery in Tennessee could produce 4,000 t/yr of separated rare earth oxides (REOs). The project would leverage proximity to potential partners while securing downstream processing capacity for non-Chinese supply chains.

US Refinery to Process Feed from Uganda’s Makuutu Project

The proposed Tennessee facility would process mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC) from IonicRE’s 60pc-owned Makuutu Rare Earth Project in Uganda. The Makuutu project stands out for its 45pc medium and heavy rare earths content, one of the highest reported concentrations globally. These elements, including dysprosium and terbium, are critical for permanent magnets in clean energy and defense industries.

Meanwhile, Viridion continues to advance recycling initiatives in Brazil. In May, the company delivered its first batch of recycled magnet REOs to local partners. Discussions are ongoing for pilot plant sites that could scale into full refineries and recycling hubs.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Viridion’s dual focus on US refining and Brazilian recycling underscores the geopolitical urgency of rare earth diversification. If realized, the Tennessee facility could reduce Western reliance on Chinese separation capacity, while Brazil positions itself as a recycling hub. Success will depend on financing, permitting, and securing offtake agreements in both markets.