From extraction to design

An expert, bespoke service that meets the needs of operators in the rare earth industry.

In these times of energy transition and the new industrial revolution, where every decision can prove crucial in the colossal challenges we encounter, Carester offers tailored support to tackle the issues faced by each intermediary.

When it comes to designing a chain of operations, Carester is the partner of choice for research and development activities, putting its expertise into action every step of the way.

Consultancy: From feasibility study to follow-up of start-up of new Units

Carester offers a bespoke, expert service for junior mining companies (see insert), to support them in designing their rare earth extraction chain.
From an assessment of Capital costs and operating costs to organization of industrial unit start-up, including the design of suitable industrial mining units, Carester combines its expertise with its niche positioning to solve the problems faced by these new potential actors in rare earths.

Optimisation study of existing units

Carester also extends its expertise to established rare earth producers, providing services aimed at optimising their operating conditions. With 250 years of industrial experience in rare earth operations, Carester is the go-to partner or resolving all issues connected with production processes and even the organisation of production factories. Its service also extends o managing and reducing ecological footprints rom waste produced by mining, for companies already operating on an industrial scale.
Following very precised analyses aimed at conducting a full chemical study for extraction, Carester’s experts essentially use their skills to design waste treatment units to recycle elements with potential monetary value and/or concentrate radioactivity to reduce the environmental footprint of residue generated, particularly residue containing radioactivity.

Carester digitalises the liquid- liquid extraction stage

Carester is fully aware of the digitalisation across all domains and aims to support the digitalisation of the industry. Above all, it aims to perpetuate the know-how of its teams. Carester is therefore currently developing liquid-liquid extraction simulation software.
This software will allow us to simulate the extraction process in two different modes.

  • Static: this is the first version of the application. It will allow Carester to predict the final state according to the operating conditions and initial state. The static mode is essential for accurately designing installations.
  • Dynamic: this is an upgrade that will be developed in a second stage. It will revolutionise the industry, offering the ability to simulate the liquid-liquid extraction process in real time and monitor evolutions of parameters. The dynamic simulator will be very useful and may quickly become indispensable in conducting rare-earth element extractions. It will help to:
    • Train new employees
    • Guide key decisions regarding existing units
    • Simulate the impact of changes in processes, raw materials and operating conditions
    • The addition of artificial intelligence will enhance mathematical solutions to complex equations, positioning Carester’s software for conversion into real simulators adapted for each industrial unit.