Abstract
This study investigates the occurrence of REE-bearing minerals within the Li clays at Thacker Pass. Statistical analysis of a drill core geochemical inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) database shows a strong correlation between Ce and La (r = 0.9). Scanning electron microscopy observations confirmed the presence of bastnäsite, synchysite, and monazite as micrometer-sized grains within Li-rich smectite and illite mineralized zones. Semiquantitative analyses identified Ce, La, Nd, and Pr as major components of these minerals. Despite the low individual REE concentrations (Ce <300 ppm, La <150 ppm) of bulk samples from Thacker Pass, the presence of the REEs as discrete minerals suggests they could potentially be recovered as by-products of Li extraction.
This is the first assessment of the REE potential of Li clay deposits, highlighting the need for further evaluation of similar deposits in Nevada and globally. These findings emphasize the potential importance of REE recovery from Li clay resources, contributing to more diverse and secure supply chains and supporting the global energy transition.