TECHNOLOGY

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TRANSFORMING MINING FOR THE ENERGY TRANSITION

1. A New Model for Critical Metals Supply

Innovative Critical Metals (ICM) is developing a next-generation mining model that integrates advanced exploration, low-impact extraction, and energy-efficient processing. Our goal is to meet the rising global demand for critical minerals while minimizing environmental and social impacts.

2. Data-Rich, Low-Disturbance Exploration

ICM leverages breakthrough technologies to improve the accuracy, speed, and sustainability of exploration. Space-enabled, AI-powered tools like ExoSphere integrate ground sensors, ambient noise tomography, and satellite data to deliver high-resolution 3D subsurface models (down to 7 km) in days rather than months. This AI-driven approach reduces geological uncertainty and physical disturbance. .Complementary technologies including drone-mounted magnetometers, 3D drone surveying, directional drilling, and AI platforms like Datarock for automated core logging—allow us to understand complex ore bodies faster than conventional methods. These systems extend exploration into previously inaccessible areas and shorten the path to drill-ready prospects.

3. Low-Impact Extraction and Autonomous Operations

We prioritize technologies that reduce energy consumption and improve safety. High-energy pulsed power solutions, such as I-Pulse, enable rock fragmentation with significantly less energy, lowering costs for drilling and tunneling. This approach has already been validated by industry leaders like BHP, Rio Tinto, and Teck. .Furthermore, autonomous trucks, drills, and loaders—combined with AI-driven predictive maintenance and digital twins—enable safer, continuous operations. Virtual reality training and advanced surveying further enhance performance while keeping personnel out of hazardous zones.

4. Circular Economy & Near-Zero-Waste Mining

ICM’s strategy emphasizes near-zero-waste principles. Solutions like Hydraulic Dewaterred Stacking (HDS) and modular systems like TersaClean improve stability, facilitate water recycling, and support metal recovery from tailings, slags, and waste rock. Additionally, low-impact extraction technologies—such as Ekion’s electric Electrokinetic In Situ Recovery (EK-ISR) and Endolith’s bio-extraction—allow for metal recovery from low-grade ores without large-scale excavation or aquifer dewatering.

5. Energy-Efficient, Low-Carbon Processing & Refining

ICM focuses on reducing reagent use and energy consumption while increasing yields. Technologies like Coarse Particle Recovery and advanced ore sorting reduce grinding loads and save water. Our suite of next-generation processes—including Still Bright’s vanadium-based copper extraction, Rock Zero’s low-temperature lithium extraction, and Kofin’s hydrogen-enabled copper processing—demonstrates how critical metals can be produced with significantly lower CO2 emissions and costs compared to conventional smelting.

6. An Integrated, ESG-Aligned Vision for Mining

ICM’s integrated approach combines data-rich exploration, autonomous extraction, and low-carbon processing. By converting waste into value and prioritizing energy efficiency, ICM is positioned to deliver critical metals at scale while setting a new sustainability benchmark for the mining industry