Volta Metals begins gallium recovery test work

Executive Summary

• Volta Metals Ltd. has launched a laboratory‑scale bioleaching program with Laurentian University to test bacterial and chemical extraction of gallium (and REEs) from the Springer deposit.
• Initial leach tests have successfully liberated gallium, neodymium, samarium, gadolinium, dysprosium and ytterbium into solution.
• The next phase will optimize microbial and chemical conditions; results are expected in Q3 2026, with potential scale‑up to bulk leach validation if outcomes are positive.

Key Details

• Partnership: Volta is working with Dr. Vasu Appanna’s Biomine Research & Development lab at Laurentian University (Sudbury, ON).
• Objective: Evaluate non‑invasive bacterial and chemical reagents for gallium recovery, secondary target REEs, from Springer rare earth and gallium deposit.
• Initial Tests: Small batch of Springer master mineral composites processed; successful liberation of:
• Gallium (Ga)
• Neodymium (Nd)
• Samarium (Sm)
• Heavy REEs – Gadolinium (Gd), Dysprosium (Dy), Ytterbium (Y)
• Technology Platform: Bio‑enabled leaching combines specialized microbial consortia, environmentally friendly chemical media, and affinity columns for selective gallium/REE recovery.
• Next Phase: Ongoing laboratory work to identify optimal chemical and microbial conditions; anticipated results Q3 2026.
• Future Steps: If positive, the study will underpin bulk leach validation studies and potential scale‑up toward commercial extraction.
• Strategic Rationale: Sustainable, domestic supply of critical gallium and REEs; enhances Springer deposit’s economic potential.

Notable Quotes

• “This sustainable extraction approach is expected to further unlock Springer's potential by supporting the efficient, domestic supply of highly critical and strategic elements.” – Volta Metals (press release)

Materiality Assessment: Non‑Material – Positive (operational progress with future upside but no immediate financial impact).