Quantum Critical Metals Corp. (TSX.V: LEAP | OTCQB: ATOXF | FSE: 86A1) has achieved a 93% gallium recovery from preliminary bench-scale metallurgical test work on mica samples from its 100% owned NMX East Project in the James Bay region of Québec. This result marks a significant milestone in the company's efforts to develop a new source of gallium, a critical metal essential for semiconductors, 5G technology, defense systems, and renewable energy applications.
Gallium is traditionally recovered as a byproduct of bauxite or zinc processing. Quantum's successful extraction from mica, an unconventional source, positions the company among the first to demonstrate direct recovery from this mineral. The breakthrough underscores the potential for mica to become a viable new source of gallium, which is increasingly important amid global supply disruptions caused by China's export controls on the metal.
Marcy Kiesman, CEO of Quantum Critical Metals Corp., commented: "A 93% recovery of gallium is a strategically significant milestone for Quantum. The next important step will be to validate the process at scale in efforts to establish Canada as a domestic gallium supplier for North America. A domestic gallium supply will reduce our reliance upon Chinese exports and position Quantum as a key player in the critical metals value chain to strengthen Western national security."
The NMX East Project, historically explored for lithium potential in pegmatites, is now being studied for gallium association within the pegmatite. The site is strategically located near Power Metallic Mines Inc., which recently expanded its land position near the Nisk-Lion-Tiger polymetallic discoveries. On June 9, 2025, Power Metallic Acquires 167KM² from Li-FT Power Ltd., expanding the Nisk-Lion polymetallic project area by over 300%, highlighting the broader region's potential for polymetallic exploration.
Quantum's early focus on metallurgical optimization and critical metal extraction positions it as a front-runner in developing domestic gallium supply. The company's portfolio includes the NMX East Gallium-Rubidium-Cesium Project in Québec, the Discovery Gallium-Rubidium-Cesium Project, the Victory Antimony Project in British Columbia, and the newly acquired Prophecy Germanium-Gallium-Zinc Project, among others. These assets support the West's transition to a secure and sustainable critical metals supply.
George M. Yordanov, P.Geo., a consultant to the Company, is the Qualified Person who has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release. For more information, visit www.quantumcriticalmetals.com and www.sedarplus.com.
