Impact Minerals (IPT) RIU Explorers Conference 2026 summary

Project overview and recent developments

• Lake Hope project in Western Australia targets high-purity alumina (HPA) with an estimated in-ground value of $15 billion, and current ownership is at 80%.

• Acquisition of a 50% share in a company with ChemX Materials' assets, including an 80% commissioned pilot plant and analytical lab, enables in-house HPA production.

• Batch mode HPA production is underway, with bags of product available for customer sampling and engagement.

• Collaboration agreement signed with C4V to accelerate battery manufacturer testing and market entry.

• Modular plant technology allows for rapid, lower-cost scaling, aiming for a North American base by 2027.

Market trends and strategic positioning

• HPA demand is growing 15–20% annually, with a projected supply deficit by 2028–2029.

• HPA is critical for LEDs, semiconductors, advanced ceramics, batteries, and other high-tech applications.

• The project targets the 3N and 4N purity segments, which represent the bulk of market volume.

• Cost curve analysis suggests the project will be among the lowest-cost global suppliers, aided by by-product credits.

• Potash and hydrochloric acid by-products are being developed in parallel, adding significant value.

Technology, cost, and future plans

• Government grant supports membrane technology to achieve 4N (99.99%) purity alumina.

• Modular plants are expected to cost one-third of competitors’ per-ton capacity, enabling faster, less capital-intensive expansion.

• The project has a multi-decade mine life (30–40 years) and a projected NPV of AUD 1.2 billion with CapEx of AUD 250 million, with potential for further improvement.

• Integration of aluminum sulfate feedstock and process IP from ChemX enhances efficiency and cost position.

• Forward plan includes completing the plant, ramping up production, customer engagement, and North American expansion by 2027.