In the heart of Utah, a discovery could reshape the global supply chain for critical minerals, potentially reducing dependence on foreign sources and bolstering domestic industries. Ionic Minerals Technology (Ionic MT), a Provo-based company, has uncovered a vast deposit of rare earth and critical minerals at its Silicon Ridge mine, located less than 20 miles south of Utah’s tech hub, Silicon Slopes. This deposit, suspended in clay rather than hard rock, contains 16 critical minerals, including gallium and germanium, which are essential for electronics, fiber-optic cables, and lasers.
The significance of this discovery cannot be overstated. China currently dominates the production of rare earth minerals, accounting for around 60% of global supplies and 90% of processing. The recent Chinese export ban on these minerals has sent shockwaves through U.S. industries, highlighting the urgent need for domestic sources. Ionic MT’s discovery could provide a much-needed alternative, potentially supporting national initiatives in artificial intelligence, electric vehicle production, and defense, while reducing reliance on foreign markets.
What sets Ionic MT apart is its commitment to responsible mining. The company asserts it can extract these minerals with virtually zero waste, using no explosives or chemicals at the site. CEO and founder Andre Zeitoun describes the company as representing “a next generation of mining, and of responsible mining.” This approach could set a new standard for the industry, demonstrating that environmental stewardship and economic development can go hand in hand.
The Silicon Ridge mine lies on parcels leased from the State Trust Lands Administration, with a permit from the Utah Division of Oil, Gas and Mining. The company initially leased 4,053 acres in 2023 and has since returned seeking an additional 3,700 acres after discovering ample concentrations of rare earth and critical minerals. The state stands to benefit financially from this venture, with revenue from the lease going to Utah schools.
The discovery could also have broader implications for Utah’s economy and energy future. Katie Potter, a professional geologist and professor at Utah State University, suggests that Silicon Ridge could kick off a “halloysite gold rush.” Halloysite, an aluminum-silicon mineral found in the clay, is used by electric vehicle manufacturers to help batteries charge faster and last longer. The unique geological conditions in Utah, resulting from a volcanic flare-up around 30 million years ago, have created rich deposits of these minerals.
State leaders have expressed enthusiasm about the potential of the Silicon Ridge mine. Senate President Stuart Adams and House Speaker Mike Schultz highlighted the discovery as an example of Utah’s ability to power the nation’s future. Governor Spencer Cox called the mine “a huge win for Utah and the nation,” noting its potential to support his “Operation Gigawatt” initiative to double the state’s energy production over the next decade.
The federal government has also expressed interest in supporting the mine, although details remain undisclosed. This discovery comes at a time when the U.S. is seeking to secure more diverse supplies of rare earths, particularly in light of recent clashes with China.
As the mining industry grapples with the challenges of sustainability and supply chain security, Ionic MT’s discovery at Silicon Ridge offers a glimmer of hope. It underscores the importance of investing in domestic resources and responsible mining practices. The development of this mine could not only create hundreds of local jobs but also position Utah as a leader in the transition to cleaner energy and the development of next-generation technologies. The ripple effects of this discovery could be felt far beyond the state’s borders, shaping the future of the mining sector and the broader economy.