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BM/All...I agree with you BM!- Why buy the land now unless you intend to commence mobilization?- Scott tells us they might get the land at "the beginning!" -
Please listen to Scott's own words during the Nov. 5th 2020 AGM- (If you have not already done so)
Hey LM/PM...."The money may come in tranches; some of them may be bigger & some of them may be smaller. It will likely be some kind of a mix between Debt & Equity. Let’s take a look at this graph & understand what it tells us.
The first 8-9 months are really an engineering effort. We need to advance detailed engineering to get to the point where we can start constructing things on the ground. In the middle of that you see a green bar about month five (5); & that’s the assumption we purchase all the land in that month."
LM/All -The Nov. 5th 2020 AGM Presentation-
LM/All -The Nov. 5th 2020 AGM Presentation-
Thanks GE & Antler! The township of Tecumseh should be part included in the loop moving forward. (Permits, Utilities, & the like moving forward.)
Today is exactly 3 months since the news from Cementation dropped. They should be about completed with costing out the mine portion prior to being contracted for engineering.
We are due news on any number of catalysts..."maybe Monday??"
Have a great weekend all!
Chico
Hey GE.. did anything ever get released from this meeting? - "Met with Niocorp, did interview for segment on project with press."
https://www.tecumsehne.com/uploads/1/0/4/6/1046396/council_minutes_-_5.3.21_.pdf
Niocorp will need to meet with township on several topics prior to & during construction...I would think.
Chico
Good point Jeunke... "IF" Niocorp is seeking to monetize the "assets in the ground" & IF they are going down that path. I'm not sure they could do so without "owning the asset" outright?
Again we have all come up with many paths to Finance...(I won't go there as Niocorp will announce whatever they come up with when ready to do so.
2020 was a lost year. SO far my gut check in 2021 for Niocorp is on track for my conclusions thus far; & it's still SPRIG-time...lol
Waiting for more news on any number of catalysts....
Chico
Follow the BREADCRUMBS from Scott- All & form your own conclusions:
Niocorp appears to be following following the course of action as laid out by Scott Honan during the last Nov. 5th AGM 2020 presentation. Where he directly mentions the following:
"The money may come in tranches; some of them may be bigger & some of them may be smaller. It will likely be some kind of a mix between Debt & Equity. Let’s take a look at this graph & understand what it tells us.
The first 8-9 months are really an engineering effort. We need to advance detailed engineering to get to the point where we can start constructing things on the ground. In the middle of that you see a green bar about month five (5); & that’s the assumption we purchase all the land in that month."
Me three! =)
The new U.S. plan to rival China and end cornering of market in rare earth metals
PUBLISHED SAT, APR 17 2021
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/04/17/the-new-us-plan-to-rival-chinas-dominance-in-rare-earth-metals.html
"Success is dependent on whether the U.S. can quickly scale up processing and refining after the mining of the resources, and compete on cost with a magnet-making and processing market that’s heavily dominated by China. Once extracted from mines, rare earths are shipped to separation facilities, where they are separated from other minerals. Then rare earths are individually separated into oxides, metals and finally magnets that are used in everything from missiles to wind turbines, medical devices, power tools, cellphones and motors for hybrid and electric vehicles."
NIOCORP will Mine & Process & Separate -( Niobium, Scandium & Titanium along with the addition of REE's (If deemed viable by management). All at the Elk Creek Mine once funded.
Niocorp is a one stop source for the top three "CRITICAL MINERALS"!
NIOBIUM ranked #2 on the 2021 U.S. Critical Minerals List Review
https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2021/1045/ofr20211045.pdf
The BENS US Critical Minerals List Criticality Ranking:
#1)RARE EARTHS #2)SCANDIUM #3)NIOBIUM
https://www.bens.org/file/councils/Criticality-Ranking.pdf
Niocorp now owns the land that holds 90% of the "known resource." Cementation has been contracted to "cost out" the mine portion of the project (about 3 months ago)... Bring on the news!
Chico
Cementation is currently @ Scoping, Pre-Feasibility and Feasibility as described
https://en.cementation.com/site/designbuild.php
"providing projects with realistic options, schedules and budgets, all based on safe work practices and current detailed cost estimates supported by actual costs from similar projects."
We should be seeing Cementation complete the "detailed cost estimates" soon & move onto detailed design... as stated in the Nov. 5th AGM 2020 this process (as it pertains to the U-mine portion) will take several months as well.
https://en.cementation.com/site/designbuild.php
Followed by procurement, construction etc... Once contracts are signed & of course "as/if funding becomes available."
Zachry Group will need to do the same for the above ground portion
Niocorp adds Zachry Group to EPC mix at Elk Creek project
https://im-mining.com/2019/11/04/niocorp-adds-zachry-group-to-epc-mix-at-elk-creek-project/
GO team Niocorp lets see those...surveyors & drilling, ground leveling & some mobilization on that land now owned!
C'mon News....
Chico
Aye PM & Nebraskan!...I have formulated my own conclusions & am watching along with everyone here as the Niocorp team executes their plan.
Scott's words "IF" I/we are to accept when Scott says (@50 min mark Nov. 5th 2020 AGM)
"starting grading, leveling, & mobilization or & including "signing a contract with a termination clause" (i.e. with Cementation or Zachary) would cover the "construction clause" & meet air permit requirements as "***STARTING CONSTRUCTION!****
& SCOTT also mentions "They can't start CONSTRUCTION until the land is actually owned!"
I draw my own conclusions from the information & questions I have asked & through my own DD & working knowledge & experiences. (As do we all.)
Enjoy the back & forth & sharing of opinions as well from many here as it helps substantiate my own thoughts or causes me to look at it from different perspectives.
PM/Kmack...I do agree with others that Niocorp can pretty much handle their own PR... That is why I asked Jim if they had plans for this year. So far I'm happy with the results & his words in response, as well as Mark's interview on Fox. No doubt more will follow. Not sure we need to push this on our end?
There are a lot of "Possibilities!" for News in the coming weeks imho.... GO team Niocrop!
Yeah... All IMHO & do your own DD thing! ."smoke em....."
Chico
GE, Crit, BM, NE & all- Very good points & feedback...appreciated!
BM - I'm glad you think "drilling" is possible earlier than my Fall prediction... I would welcome that indeed! I don't want to get my hopes up too much mate, but the weeks ahead do look very interesting & full of "possibilities".
GE/Antler & I think a few others on board have Nebraska covered for sure! There should be some state & local permits headed in that direction soon? Utilities, leveling, drilling, surveying, mobilization ...oh & "that port-o-let dude"(had too...)
You two guys have that Nebraska State site in your crosshairs...every darn time I go there it gives me agida! lol
Some of the aforementioned will require permits I think? Sometimes the local Fire Marshall/fire dept. bears watching. When a large construction project commitment is made; some permits (fire/safety/rescue) are required prior to a start, & others for sure. The size of the Elk Creek mine when/if built might require some additional rescue equipment to deal with an underground mine situation? not sure... (Niocorp may donate some equipment in the future???)
PM- yes there was mention (Nov. 5th AGM 2020 during questions) of $100 million being spent by an entity or several??? (not sure), but 2020 was a lost year due to covid. Maybe those folks have gotton the legal mumbo jumbo done?? We sure did cover all types of finance discussions...
Kmack.... I can't wait to see your price predictions come true mate!
Again all IMHO & do your own DD...
What "NEWS" might drop this week???
Chico
Not sure what you are getting at?... (CDH)-You used the word "Verge" & that appears no-where in any reply I received from Jim. You & others can draw your own conclusions from the information & opinions we all have shared on this board & that which Niocorp has officially posted/announced.
I have asked & received reply's to several questions (via email) & have shared a good many of the responses here on the board. Again draw your own conclusions & opinions.
For me it is not an "Odd response". It tells me that Niocorp is not yet ready to officially announce a start date until they are ready. Everything I see happening & as we have discussed openly here on the board through good back & forth between many board members looks good to me. (Some other folks may have a different opinions & that is fine too.)
"IF" I/we are to accept when Scott says (@50 min mark Nov. 5th AGM)
"starting grading, leveling, & mobilization or & including "signing a contract with a termination clause" (i.e. with Cementation or Zachary) would cover the "construction clause" & meet air permit requirements as "***STARTING CONSTRUCTION!****
& SCOTT also mentions "They can't start CONSTRUCTION until the land is actually owned!"
Well then as I always state "Draw your own conclusions!"
"I've got mine."
All IMHO & do your own DD
"Front row seats......!"
Chico
Thanks GE/Crit!- Not planting corn or beans on the land parcel now owned by Niocorp "kinda" falls right in line with the following remarks from Scott Honan.
-Nov. 5th AGM-
Shaft Freezing Process: BM please feel free to add bro! Again listening to the Nov. 5th AGM 2020 (@34 min. mark)
PM/all.. This response from Jim was in regards to one question I had asked about - "During the next update presentation will Niocorp offer a slide showing a (start to completion timeline) to coincide with the construction timeline in current presentation?"
Jim's response: “b) "Given that we do not yet know if and when we will obtain the project financing we are seeking, or how and when such financing will be sequenced, it is not possible at this time to set a precise “start” date to any timeline.”
"For me..." Niocorp is following the course of action as laid out by Scott Honan during the last Nov. 5th AGM 2020 presentation. Where he directly mentions the following:
"The money may come in tranches; some of them may be bigger & some of them may be smaller. It will likely be some kind of a mix between Debt & Equity. Let’s take a look at this graph & understand what it tells us.
The first 8-9 months are really an engineering effort. We need to advance detailed engineering to get to the point where we can start constructing things on the ground. In the middle of that you see a green bar about month five (5); & that’s the assumption we purchase all the land in that month."
LM... Fernanda Fenga has a great resume & she "somehow" showed up when a position just happened to be vacant & needed filling??? hmmmm....
Yeh...O.K. we did mention that sometimes to close a deal certain entities want certain individuals in certain places... "Certainly this could be in play! ROFL...(or not!)"
We won't know for certain until some lager block/tranche of funding is completed & the details are announced. So far the Niocorp team has been executing on their plan as funds become available. Let's see what is announced between now & the end of June...
Many of us have posted a good number of items that could "certainly" drop at any moment!
The above is most certainly my own opinion; please do your own DD.
having some fun this morning... GO team Niocorp!
Chico =)
Doug/MB- Dr. D confirms the magnetic separation process will work for the entire known resource. Concentrating the REE's to 5-7% and forming a concentrate which can easily be sold/separated by not only SEARCH minerals proprietary process but other entities & processes! (Thinking USARE/Saskatchewan synergies)
Again...He confirms that SHCMF is looking to bring the 3 resources together & complete F.S. in 2 years timeframe as they prove out their separation process to scale. They have a good portion of the funding to do so & are looking to seek a partner/finance @ 2023.
All of the above will greatly enhance the NPV & reduce Opex/Capex expenditures. I think easily about 10x current share price in 2-3yrs.
To me they are on a similar trajectory as Niocorp now & should be in production by @2025. (of course "If" funded lol!) So again a 2 year hold & accumulate in the .16 range makes sense to me as well.
USA rare earths needs diversity of supply to bring their mine to magnet strategy to the market & SHCMF is on the menu!
All IMHO & do your own DD
Chico
Hey Dutch..."Me too =)...agree!"
Niocorp did offer "private commentary" to the DOD inquiry. Please see Jim's response to a few questions:
a) "We provided private commentary to the DoD in response to the Biden Administration’s request for comments on this matter. We speak to the Department frequently on the Elk Creek Project (and other federal departments) and we keep them very well informed of our progress. Given that many senior positions in the new Administration are still being filled, and that the Administration’s supply chain analysis is likely to evolve over the next year or so before any significant policy initiatives (if any) are made, it is more effective to conduct 1x1 conversations and briefings on projects like ours at this stage.
b) "Given that we do not yet know if and when we will obtain the project financing we are seeking, or how and when such financing will be sequenced, it is not possible at this time to set a precise “start” date to any timeline.
c) "Regarding our ongoing work on carbonation and other R&D initiatives, we look forward to providing updates to the market as things progress and public announcements are appropriate."
All the best,
Jim Sims
VP, External Affairs
NioCorp Developments Ltd.
Wanted to share & please form your own conclusions.
"Front row seats...."
Chico
MB, Crit, BM et al- It appears Niocorp's recent PP's & warrant conversions will have enough cash to weather through 2021...(this sentence MB posted says a lot!)
"We are focused on obtaining additional funds to carry out our near-term planned work programs associated with securing the project financing necessary to complete mine development, construction, commissioning, and operation of the Elk Creek Project."
Again imho it matches the Nov. 5th 2020 AGM presentation strategy laid out by Scott Honan & posted on the board: "Small tranche loans leading to larger blocks of finance, Engineering, Drilling Utilities & Permits..."
(Cementation should be about done with cost estimates (it's been almost 3 months) & move onto Engineering the mine. The drilling BM described before will need to be started/completed. Long lead Utilities, permits & components will be priority..)
BM any addition of the most valued REE's "IF Possible" could increase the NPV imho. Please read Reply to questions regarding the need for a new F.S. & REE separation 4/2021
***NO NEW F.S. is needed*****
Question #1)
a) "IF" REE's are to be added into the NPV as Mark mentioned. Will another F.S. be needed, or can Niocorp continue progress on the overall project ( sinking of the mine shaft & engineering & design) while this is being worked out? (of course once funding is available)
Response from Jim Sims:
"#1) It is not our intent at this time to update the Project’s Feasibility Study because of the possibility of producing rare earth materials as a byproduct of our current planned operations. Such an update would be required if we wanted to adjust the overall economics of the Project (e.g., allowing for new calculations of the project’s Net Present Value (NPV) and other economic measures) in a manner that reflects the addition of rare earth products. However, taking this step would require a great deal of work and time (and expense), which we do not believe is needed at this time – especially for potential byproducts. That said, there may be other pathways that allow us to quantify estimated production volumes, OPEX, CAPEX, and revenue gain from producing rare earth products that do not involve a wholesale update to our existing FS."
b) What method of Separation does Niocorp intend to utilize to produce REE's & can this method be added "after" the original mine facility is built or will it require a total redesign? (Does this tie into the proprietary CO2 separation Scott & L3 are working on?)
Response to 2nd question:
"#2)Analysis of processing pathways for any prospective production of rare earth products is ongoing. It is likely that we would utilize separation extraction (SX) processes to separate and purify target rare earth elements. This is the process that we already plan to use in order to produce scandium, so it would be relatively straightforward to add additional SX capacity to the existing plant design. SX also is a technology with which our team is highly familiar, as our engineers have previously designed, built, and/or operated much larger SX production operations for rare earth production than would be needed in the Elk Creek Project. However, final decisions on whether and how to produce rare earth materials have not yet been made."
All the best,
Jim
Crit: The Finance "Can" being kicked down the road always seems to coincide with the U.S. govt. dragging their feet. It remains to be seen if anything (loans/guarantees or other) comes to bear fruit on that end?? ; & I keep going back to reference this reply from Jim
On 10/21/20,
Hi Jim...
Gotta ask...
Will/does Niocorp - benefit from this executive order in the future through loan guarantees or investment moving forward?
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/executive-order-addressing-threat-domestic-supply-chain-reliance-critical-minerals-foreign-adversaries/
Jims response:
Possibly, yes.
Jim
Aside:
I want to see what Niocorp announces between now & the end of June & an update meeting/presentation at that time like they have done in past years. I have posted my own schedule that I compare to what Niocorp has accomplished. I am hoping to see : Fall drilling or earlier for the sinking of the shaft, Cementation engineering the mine portion, Utilities starting by year end & permits -(in addition to them adding additional funding as needed.)
The Niocorp team is moving the ball & continues to execute their plan. Nothing I have seen has altered that fact "yet". Watching from front row seats....=)
All IMHO & do your own DD
Chico
Search Minerals' Dr. David Dreisinger says "the time for rare earths is now"
May 11, 2021
Utilities & Permits for the mine site- Electric, Gas & Water supplies to the site will need some permitting/approvals by state & local governments prior to starting work.
Gas will be coming from the Rockies Express Pipeline LLC/TallGrass:
https://journalstar.com/business/local/niocorp-signs-deal-for-new-natural-gas-pipeline-in-southeast-nebraska/article_eb97c6a5-9b51-520d-884e-9e987d225b8e.html
"The pipeline would still need government regulatory approval, which Niocorp said Rockies Express would be responsible for securing."
Electric supply by Commonwealth if I remember correctly. Although Temporary power by generators will suffice until lines are completed. I am not sure what permits or approvals will be needed, but probably something from the state & local government?
Water may also need state & local permits & approvals prior to moving forward:
"NioCorp Developments – Water Project Cost Estimates - Staff indicated that preliminary thoughts would be that the City would need to install 2-3 new wells, a new transmission line to town and to the mine site, and a 500,000 gallon water tower south of town. A storage tank would also be needed at the mine site. A booster pump at the new tower would also be needed. Would need to discuss further where the new wells could be located. Have to look at water quality of different sites as well. May look at installing deeper wells too. No real cost estimates yet until some other decisions are made."
https://www.tecumsehne.com/uploads/1/0/4/6/1046396/bpw_minutes_-_10-1-18.pdf
According to the Nov. 5th AGM 2020 "Utilities & permits/approvals" are items Niocorp is seeking to accomplish ("early on as funding becomes available.")
The Utilities to the site are long lead time items that will need to be started asap to meet scheduling for project completion.
Niocorp outstanding news-worthy Catalysts:
Large Integrated US Based Steel Producer Signs LOI with NioCorp for Ferroniobium (April 13, 2020)
https://www.niocorp.com/large-u-s-based-steel-producer-signs-non-binding-letter-of-intent-with-niocorp/
"**This has been hanging out there for over a year now..."
NioCorp R&D Effort Identifies Possible Improved Approach to Niobium Extraction for its Elk Creek Project
(September 29, 2020)
https://www.niocorp.com/niocorp-rd-effort-identifies-possible-improved-approach-to-niobium-extraction-for-its-elk-creek-project/
**An update on Separation process with L3 for niobium or others (REEs?)
NioCorp Signs Contract with Cementation USA, Inc. to Continue Advancing Engineering Work for the Elk Creek Superalloy Materials Project
(Feb. 23, 2021)
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/niocorp-signs-contract-with-cementation-usa-inc-to-continue-advancing-engineering-work-for-the-elk-creek-superalloy-materials-project-301233656.html
"Under the contract, Cementation will conduct an evaluation of the current design for the Project's underground mine and prepare a detailed cost estimate for the final detailed engineering that would be required to bring the mine design to "Issued for Construction" status. As previously announced here, NioCorp selected Cementation as the lead Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contractor for the underground aspects of the Project. NioCorp expects to engage Cementation, if and when additional Project financing becomes available, to undertake Phase 2 of the contract, which involves completion of the detailed engineering for the mine."
**3 Months ends mid May....hmmm onto engineering as "funds" become available????
A larger Block Tranche of "FUNDS" or "The Big - F" or partner/s announcement by any means as we all have discussed would be especially nice between now & the end of June!? ***The elephant in the room...
I would like & hope to see Niocorp "Drilling" by this Fall or earlier at the site. What they accomplish & announce between now & the end of June will be very telling for me.
Go team Niocorp... May is "Sprig too!" bring on the NEWS & that World TOUR....
"If at all possible!" M.S.
All IMHO etc...
Chico
Nice Find DOC! Like PM mentioned the other day these articles about the dire need for the U.S. & our allies to establish an ESG principled critical minerals supply chain (from mine to manufacturing) & distance ourselves from China. It is a national security & economic issue & has been for many years.
Niocorp's Elk Creek mine will be able to supply all of the top three critical minerals as listed by the USGS/DOD & BENS critical minerals reports. #1) REES, #2)SCANDIUM , #3)NIOBIUM
Once producing the Elk Creek mine will have an established Separation Facility on site as well.
Niocorp is continuing to execute their plan. Let's see what is announced in the next few months. Many here including myself believe there are many such positive catalysts headed are way!
All imho
Chico
GE...I remember a water tower mentioned & went back & found it... Scott Honan did meet with them again.
https://www.tecumsehne.com/uploads/1/0/4/6/1046396/bpw_minutes_-_10-1-18.pdf
"NioCorp Developments Presentation from Scott Honan – Scott reviewed a briefing he prepared for the Board. Discussed the water formation under the mine site – it is an isolated pocket, not connected or flowing to the Missouri River. They have determined that the supply is not infinite and will run out – they only need to dewater about 1,000 gallons/minutes (instead of the 12,000 gallons/minute they originally thought) – so they do not have to build the water line to the Missouri River – they actually need more water. So they are working with the City to see if we are able to supply their needs. They would be looking for 1,500-2,000 gallons/minute from the City.
NioCorp Developments – Water Project Cost Estimates - Staff indicated that preliminary thoughts would be that the City would need to install 2-3 new wells, a new transmission line to town and to the mine site, and a 500,000 gallon water tower south of town. A storage tank would also be needed at the mine site. A booster pump at the new tower would also be needed. Would need to discuss further where the new wells could be located. Have to look at water quality of different sites as well. May look at installing deeper wells too. No real cost estimates yet until some other decisions are made.
Olsson Associates – Contract for City of Tecumseh Water Study (not for NioCorp project) – The study would be for the entire City of Tecumseh (not specifically for the NioCorp project). We have not conducted a comprehensive water study since the 1990’s. Motion by Murphy, second by Blessing to approve a contract with Olsson’s not to exceed $15,000. Voting Aye: Blessing, Murphy. Voting Nay: None. Not Present: Campbell. Motion Carried."
As Niocorp gets closer to construction "Land purchases, Engineering, Drilling, Utilities & Permits" are on the agenda as mentioned in the Nov. 5th 2020 AGM presentation as items that will be done possibly "sooner"... as funding becomes available...
"Front row seats...."
Chico
Nice find GE!... Their will be many permits needed through the townships & discussions on matters that effect them as the Elk Creek Mine moves towards construction.
The minutes from this older town meeting was the last time I saw any commentary in regards to Niocorp. When they mentioned "Water needs":
https://www.tecumsehne.com/uploads/1/0/4/6/1046396/bpw_minutes_-_9-4-18.pdf
"NioCorp Developments – Possible water main project & estimated costs. The mining company is interested in tapping into City water supply and piping it to the mine site. May need 500 –2,000 gallons per minute. Discussed the need to evaluate our water supply capacity and the
needs of the community to see if the project is feasible. Olsson’s will work on the study and provide some estimated project costs. Motion by Murphy, second by Campbell to authorize Olsson Associates to begin the water study for the potential NioCorp water project. Voting Aye:
Blessing, Campbell, Murphy. Voting Nay: None. Motion Carried. A contract will be brought back to the Board for review. Additional discussion about financing the project and how they would be charged (via rates or assessment) for the infrastructure and water usage is pending.
Scott Honan of NioCorp plans to attend the next meeting on October 1st." (**Note: I do not believe Scott Honan ever followed up this Oct. meeting??)
Many more smaller permits will be needed. I know yourself, Nebraska, Antler & some more local board members here are very proactive in posting any materials you all find. "Much appreciated from me & others I might add...thank you!"
Let's see what News comes out between now & the end of June...
could be an interesting "SPRIG" wind up...??? We shall see...
All imho
Chico
KM,PM & BM... I couldn't agree with you more! PM since 2011 the news about China/critical minerals & the need to establish a U.S. supply chain & re-emergence in mining & processing to end products has been beaten like a drum. The timing once again could not be more perfect for the Elk Creek mine project.
BM- The positive catalysts for Niocorp to exceed expectations on all those counts mentioned - Closing last PP, Cementation, L3 separation progress, etc.. like we all have mentioned & believe are in play.
KM - Tax incentives indeed! from the state of Nebraska & now possibly additional movement with the U.S. govt. may still be in play in the future as well.
The Niocorp team is continuing to execute on that Nov. 5th AGM game-plan as laid out by Scott. We have seen a series of smaller tranche loans that have allowed them to purchase the land needed, Contract Cementation for cost estimates (3 months have about gone by, we should be about done with estimates very soon) & as BM mentioned detailed Engineering , Drilling & grubbing should follow there after. The team is continuing to execute their plan.
Power, Gas, Water (utilities) to the site as well as additional permitting was also mentioned during that 2020 AGM as things that would happen early on ("earlier than later" per Scott). Check the land off =).
Niocorp is "picking up Steam!"
All imho...
Chico
Niocorp outstanding news-worthy Catalysts:
Large Integrated US Based Steel Producer Signs LOI with NioCorp for Ferroniobium (April 13, 2020)
https://www.niocorp.com/large-u-s-based-steel-producer-signs-non-binding-letter-of-intent-with-niocorp/
"**This has been hanging out there for over a year now..."
NioCorp R&D Effort Identifies Possible Improved Approach to Niobium Extraction for its Elk Creek Project
(September 29, 2020)
https://www.niocorp.com/niocorp-rd-effort-identifies-possible-improved-approach-to-niobium-extraction-for-its-elk-creek-project/
**An update on Separation process with L3 for niobium or others (REEs?)
NioCorp Signs Contract with Cementation USA, Inc. to Continue Advancing Engineering Work for the Elk Creek Superalloy Materials Project
(Feb. 23, 2021)
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/niocorp-signs-contract-with-cementation-usa-inc-to-continue-advancing-engineering-work-for-the-elk-creek-superalloy-materials-project-301233656.html
"Under the contract, Cementation will conduct an evaluation of the current design for the Project's underground mine and prepare a detailed cost estimate for the final detailed engineering that would be required to bring the mine design to "Issued for Construction" status. As previously announced here, NioCorp selected Cementation as the lead Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contractor for the underground aspects of the Project. NioCorp expects to engage Cementation, if and when additional Project financing becomes available, to undertake Phase 2 of the contract, which involves completion of the detailed engineering for the mine."
**3 Months ends mid May....hmmm onto engineering as "funds" become available????
NioCorp Announces C$6 Million Non-Brokered Private Placement
(Apr 19, 2021)
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/niocorp-announces-c6-million-non-brokered-private-placement-301271501.html
"It is anticipated that the private placement will close on or before Friday, April 30, 2021"
(10 buisness days past closing is Friday May 14th) News could come before then?
A larger Block Tranche of "FUNDS" or "The Big - F" or partner/s announcement by any means as we all have discussed would be especially nice between now & the end of June!? ***The elephant in the room...lol
Go team Niocorp... May is "Sprig too!" bring on the NEWS & that World TOUR....
"If at all possible!" M.S.
All IMHO etc...
Chico
Niocorp outstanding news-worthy Catalysts:
Large Integrated US Based Steel Producer Signs LOI with NioCorp for Ferroniobium (April 13, 2020)
https://www.niocorp.com/large-u-s-based-steel-producer-signs-non-binding-letter-of-intent-with-niocorp/
"**This has been hanging out there for over a year now..."
NioCorp R&D Effort Identifies Possible Improved Approach to Niobium Extraction for its Elk Creek Project
(September 29, 2020)
https://www.niocorp.com/niocorp-rd-effort-identifies-possible-improved-approach-to-niobium-extraction-for-its-elk-creek-project/
**An update on Separation process with L3 for niobium or others (REEs?)
NioCorp Signs Contract with Cementation USA, Inc. to Continue Advancing Engineering Work for the Elk Creek Superalloy Materials Project
(Feb. 23, 2021)
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/niocorp-signs-contract-with-cementation-usa-inc-to-continue-advancing-engineering-work-for-the-elk-creek-superalloy-materials-project-301233656.html
"Under the contract, Cementation will conduct an evaluation of the current design for the Project's underground mine and prepare a detailed cost estimate for the final detailed engineering that would be required to bring the mine design to "Issued for Construction" status. As previously announced here, NioCorp selected Cementation as the lead Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contractor for the underground aspects of the Project. NioCorp expects to engage Cementation, if and when additional Project financing becomes available, to undertake Phase 2 of the contract, which involves completion of the detailed engineering for the mine."
**3 Months ends mid May....hmmm onto engineering as "funds" become available????
NioCorp Announces C$6 Million Non-Brokered Private Placement
(Apr 19, 2021)
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/niocorp-announces-c6-million-non-brokered-private-placement-301271501.html
"It is anticipated that the private placement will close on or before Friday, April 30, 2021"
(10 buisness days past closing is Friday May 14th) News could come before then?
A larger Block Tranche of "FUNDS" or "The Big - F" or partner/s announcement by any means as we all have discussed would be especially nice between now & the end of June!? ***The elephant in the room...lol
Go team Niocorp... May is "Sprig too!" bring on the NEWS & that World TOUR....
"If at all possible!" M.S.
All IMHO etc...
Chico
The US Is Worried About its Critical Minerals Supply Chains, Which Are Essential for the Nation's Defense:
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2021/04/06/us-worried-about-its-critical-minerals-supply-chains-which-are-essential-nations-defense.html
https://www.dla.mil/HQ/Acquisition/StrategicMaterials/Materials/
Thanks for sharing PM! that was another good article... Hopefully it's "SPRIG time for Niocorp!" & about that time for a big block of Finance to come to fruition????
"If at all possible??!" M.S.
Chico
NIOBIUM ranked #2 on the 2021 U.S. Critical Minerals List Review :
"Using a risk-modeling framework, these
factors were evaluated quantitatively and, in certain cases
qualitatively, to determine which mineral commodity supply
chains posed the greatest supply risk to the United States."
(Niobium is ranked 2nd as the most critical U.S. mineral 2021!)
https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2021/1045/ofr20211045.pdf
" Several commodities on the initial CML
(cesium, rubidium, scandium, europium, gadolinium, terbium,
holmium, erbium, thulium, ytterbium, and lutetium) that could
not be assessed quantitatively were evaluated qualitatively
and found to have notable risks associated with their supply."
The BENS US Critical Minerals List Criticality Ranking:
#1)RARE EARTHS
#2)SCANDIUM
#3)NIOBIUM
https://www.bens.org/file/councils/Criticality-Ranking.pdf
NIOCORP will produce Niobium, Scandium & Titanium & "possible rare earth minerals). The need is there & the markets can further develop as the Elk Creek Mine is constructed. ("IF at all possible????????") M.S.
Still holding my front row seat.....
All IMHO...
Chico
Thanks MB... every little bit helps! Trading will be sideways here @ .14 to .18 as they plug along drilling. Might bump up once results start coming in or on news of the pilot plant etc... (.30+ by fall)
Search is "on the menu" & keeps getting good PR & recognition from a good assortment of players.
Good time to buy/add at these levels....
imho
Chico
NIOBIUM & Niobium pentoxide in the news... It appears Niobium may play an important role in fast charge Lithium ion battery development. Several companies -Toshiba, Nyobolt, Nano One... & more are moving in that direction...
https://stockstreetnews.com/nano-one-enters-into-a-co-development-agreement-with-niobium-producer-cbmm
"Nano One has successfully demonstrated the use of niobium as a coating for various cathode materials and has several related patents now granted and pending,"
https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlepdf/2021/mh/d0mh01481h
Niobium pentoxide based materials for high rate rechargeable electrochemical energy storage
Nice to see the markets for both Niobium & Scandium are on the move & not dormant. Time for Niocorp to get that big block of- (Shelf loan, SPAC, partner/s, govt. loan or loan guarantee or other private finance done!)
Maybe we will get news on the closing of the last PP offering? & Cementation completing cost estimates to move onto engineering???
Last PP has Gotta wind up & be within 10 days of closing date....I think so today or Friday..
All IMHO...
Chico
NIOBIUM & Niobium pentoxide in the news... It appears Niobium may play an important role in fast charge Lithium ion battery development. Several companies -Toshiba, Nyobolt, Nano One... & more are moving in that direction...
https://stockstreetnews.com/nano-one-enters-into-a-co-development-agreement-with-niobium-producer-cbmm
"Nano One has successfully demonstrated the use of niobium as a coating for various cathode materials and has several related patents now granted and pending,"
https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlepdf/2021/mh/d0mh01481h
Niobium pentoxide based materials for high rate rechargeable electrochemical energy storage
Nice to see the markets for both Niobium & Scandium are on the move & not dormant. Time for Niocorp to get that big block of- (Shelf loan, SPAC, partner/s, govt. loan or loan guarantee or other private finance done!)
Maybe we will get news on the closing of the last PP offering? & Cementation completing cost estimates to move onto engineering???
Last PP has Gotta wind up & be within 10 days of closing date....I think so today or Friday..
All IMHO...
Chico
Scandium on the move!
Two Key Scandium Patents. John Kaiser - May 5, 2021
Ge11- I believe they did have the option to submit comments under "business confidential" status. I am curious as to why they did not choose to leave a comment in regards to these matters when some other "players" in the field such as (USA Rare Earths, MP materials & more) did so.
Niocorp has offered comments in the past as well; even giving testimony before Congress. Even the province of Quebec chimed in:
https://www.regulations.gov/comment/DOD-2021-OS-0022-0071
"Scandium and aluminium
Scandium is used in several industrial sectors, such as aerospace, clean technologies and defense. It is also one of the main elements involved in the production of solid oxide fuel cell batteries. Rio Tinto, another company known worldwide and very well established in Québec for many years, announced on January 14, 2021 that it would become the first
high-quality scandium oxide producer in North America.
Parallel to this, the company, which is already a primary aluminium producer in Québec, wants to position itself as a producer of high-performance aluminium-scandium alloy, which in great demand in sectors such as aerospace and defense (fighter jets). This Québec breakthrough places the scandium industry in a strong position to support the
development of these key North American industries."
One of four guesses come to mind???
1) They were unaware of the entire process.
2) They were aware & chose not to offer comment.
3) They did offer comment, but did so in confidentiality.
4) They could not comment, because something else is at or in play. (refer to Dougnil's post#71610)??
So Niocorp not pushing or giving a public comment is "interesting" to me, because they were always ready to offer comment to each U.S. govt. action & keep the project in the mix. Just look at the Niocorp News section on their website:
https://www.niocorp.com/niocorp-applauds-white-house-initiative-to-promote-stronger-critical-minerals-supply-chains-in-the-u-s/
I am watching to see what the team announces between now & the end of June, & hope they have an update meeting at that time as well. Let's see what tidings come our way between now & then.
All IMHO etc...
Watching from the front row....with many here.
Chico
Public comments on NIOBIUM:
Again some good reads....
https://www.regulations.gov/search/comment?filter=niobium&postedDateFrom=2021-02-05&postedDateTo=2021-05-05
Again Niocorp did not offer public comment? When they intend to produce Niobium & Scandium; when Niocorp has offered public comments in the past & even testified before congress???? Interesting....
IMHO
Chico
Public comments on SCANDIUM that were made to the DOD:
from this website: (several comments & Good Reads)
https://www.regulations.gov/search/comment?filter=scandium&postedDateFrom=2021-04-29&postedDateTo=2021-05-05
Some of the comments taken:
"For Scandium, there is widespread recognition of Sc’s value in the Al alloy market, but the opportunity suffers from the chicken and egg argument about which comes first, the supply or the demand. ElementUS is talking with other domestic and international sources to promote the value of a multiple supply source market to expand the adoption of Sc in aluminum alloys. We will have at least three Sc sources in North America by 2025."
ODD Niocorp did not submit a public commentary? IMHO when other such companies took the opportunity to do so.... "interesting"....
Chico
The Role of Critical World Energy Outlook Special Report Minerals in Clean Energy Transitions:
https://docs.wind-watch.org/IEA-Critical-Minerals.pdf
"The report notes that investment in new mineral supply projects has been on an upward path, but continued investment is needed to manage new price cycles and volatility."
https://www.miningweekly.com/article/iea-report-outlines-urgent-need-to-accelerate-investment-in-critical-minerals-to-drive-energy-transition-2021-05-05/rep_id:3650
The BENS US Critical Minerals List Criticality Ranking
#2 Scandium #3 Niobium
https://www.bens.org/file/councils/Criticality-Ranking.pdf
https://www.bens.org/pages/policy-work/resilience-council---critical-minerals
Good reads....!
Chico