Lindian lands non-radioactivity ruling for Malawian rare earths
Brought to you by Bulls and Bears
Doug Bright
Australia’s National Nuclear Science and Technology Organization (ANSTO) has independently tested representative samples of monazite concentrate from Lindian Resources’ Kangankunde rare earth project in Malawi and determined that it is exempt from radioactive transport classification under the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) SSR-6 framework.
ANSTO’s high-resolution gamma spectrometry analysis of two representative samples noted that uranium and thorium activity concentrations were well below IAEA exemption thresholds and actinium-227 was below detection limits.
As a result, shipments will not be subject to Class 7 hazardous materials requirements, eliminating the need for special packaging, restricted carriers or additional regulatory oversight.
This permit gives Kangankunde a clear advantage over many competing rare earth projects, where higher radiation levels are subject to stricter handling rules, straining early-stage radionuclide stripping and imposing heavy compliance costs on developers.
‘This positions Kangankunde as a world-class, low-complexity rare earth project.’
Lindian Resources Executive Director Zac Kömür
The findings are consistent with previous ANSTO metallurgical testing studies, which confirmed ultra-low radionuclide levels and 97 percent NdPr extraction in both concentrated and mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC).
Together, the results demonstrate a low-radiological path from raw material to final product and reinforce Kangankunde’s position as a scalable, lower-risk development.
Lindian Resources general manager Zac Kömür said: “ANSTO’s independent verification provides clear verification of the radiological profile of our Kangankunde concentrate and materially de-risks our path to market. ANSTO’s determination that the product is exempt from the SSR-6 radioactive transport classification is a significant structural advantage.”
Low intrinsic radioactivity also offers storage advantages, allowing practical stockpiling for over 20 years under standard industrial conditions.
Unlike highly radioactive products that require licensed facilities or early processing, Kangankunde can be stored long-term, providing Lindian with valuable inventory flexibility and aligning the project with emerging dominant critical mineral stockpiling strategies.
As Lindian moves towards phase one facility construction, with first production targeted for late 2026, ANSTO approval represents a significant risk mitigation milestone and increases Kangankunde’s appeal in the global rare earth supply chain.
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