Mining & Processing

How Rhenium Is Mined and Processed

Rhenium (Re) is a refractory metal with global annual production of approximately 60 tonnes, primarily from Chile and United States. Typical ore grades range from Byproduct - 100-2000 ppm in molybdenite.

Mining Methods

Rhenium is extracted through the following methods, selected based on deposit type and geology:

• Byproduct of molybdenum roasting
• Byproduct of copper smelting

Ore Types and Mineralogy

The principal ore types and mineral sources for Rhenium include:

• Rhenium recovered from flue gas/dust during MoS2 roasting
• Molybdenite - MoS2 containing 100-2000 ppm Re

Processing and Beneficiation

Following extraction, Rhenium ore undergoes the following processing stages:

1. Scrubbing of roaster flue gases
2. Ammonium perrhenate precipitation
3. Hydrogen reduction to metal
4. Recycling of spent catalysts and superalloy scrap

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Mining and processing of Rhenium must comply with environmental regulations governing water use, tailings management, emissions, and land rehabilitation. Increasingly stringent environmental standards are raising production costs but also driving innovation in cleaner extraction technologies. The social license to operate and community engagement have become critical factors in project development, particularly in Chile where 52% of global production is concentrated.