Quantum Critical Metals Initiates Metallurgical Test Work on Gallium-Rubidium-Cesium Mineralization at NMX East
Vancouver, BC – July 25, 2025 – Quantum Critical Metals Corp. (TSX.V: LEAP | OTCQB: ATOXF | FSE: 86A1) (“Quantum” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that a core test sample from the NMX East has been submitted for metallurgical test work to SGS Lakefield, Ontario. The NMX East project is located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Québec.
In late June, a team sampled the core that was drilled in 2023 to make up a test sample for processing and metallurgy. The core had previously been cut in half, sampled and assayed. The assay results revealed anomalous gallium, rubidium and cesium which were reported on March 13, 2025 after assay results were re-evaluated due to changes in gallium supply worldwide.
A sample weighing over 40kg was submitted which was taken from the remaining core from hole DNW 2023-03 from 8.92m–116.5m. Since the core was previously cut in half, it was halved again resulting in two quarters; one quarter of the remaining core was sampled for submission to the laboratory, leaving one quarter of the core remaining in the box.
The purpose of this test work is to investigate the mineralogical association of gallium, rubidium and cesium (and other elements), to process the core to isolate the minerals of interest, and to conduct proof of concept hydrometallurgy to extract these metals.
Quantum Key Developments to Date
- Significant Critical Metals Discoveries
A detailed reassessment of drill core assays from both Québec projects has confirmed elevated and consistent intervals of gallium, rubidium, cesium, niobium, and tantalum, supporting the identification of two distinct gallium-rubidium-cesium mineralized systems within the Company’s portfolio. - Early Metallurgical Focus to Accelerate Recovery Assessment
Quantum is prioritizing mineralogical and metallurgical studies ahead of a formal resource estimate to evaluate the economic viability of metal recovery, aiming to fast-track development and position the Company at the forefront of critical metal supply efforts in North America. - Innovative Gallium Recovery from Mica
Initial findings suggest gallium may be hosted in mica, a non-traditional source. While gallium is typically extracted as a byproduct of bauxite or zinc processing, historical studies show it can be recovered from mica using floatation followed by hydrometallurgy acid leaching techniques. - Strengthening Domestic Supply Chains
In light of China’s December 2024 ban on gallium exports, Quantum’s discoveries represent a timely and strategic opportunity to support North American critical mineral independence across semiconductors, telecommunications, defense, and renewable energy.
CEO Marcy Kiesman commented: “While advancing metallurgy early in a project’s life cycle may be historically unconventional, it reflects our urgency and commitment to unlocking domestic sources of critical metals. We believe solving the processing piece first will accelerate the development of our assets and fill the global supply gap of these minerals.”
About Gallium
Gallium is a critical component in semiconductors, telecommunications, and renewable energy sectors. Canada and the USA rely on gallium for telecommunications, defense, and green energy. In 2023, global high-purity gallium production was estimated at 320 tonnes. China has imposed export controls on gallium, exacerbating supply chain challenges for the U.S. and its allies.
About Rubidium
Today most rubidium is obtained as a byproduct of lithium. Rubidium’s critical role in emerging technologies and its limited supply make it a valuable strategic resource. The global annual consumption is less than 2,000 kilograms, with prices for high-purity rubidium compounds often exceeding $1 million per tonne. Applications include specialty glass, telecommunications, quantum computing, and batteries.
About Cesium
Cesium is a rare, silvery-gold alkali metal known for its high reactivity. It plays a critical role in atomic clocks, medical imaging, and oil and gas drilling operations. The global cesium market was valued at approximately USD 363.58 million in 2024 and is projected to reach nearly USD 601.72 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.5%.
About Critical Metals
Critical metals are essential components in modern technologies, including renewable energy systems, defense applications, and advanced electronics. The U.S. Geological Survey’s 2022 list includes 50 critical minerals, while Canada in 2024 has designated 34 minerals as critical. China has implemented export bans affecting the West, underscoring the importance of diversifying supply chains and developing domestic sources.
About Quantum Critical Metals Corp.
Quantum Critical Metals Corp. (TSX.V: LEAP) (OTCQB: ATOXF) (FSE: 86A1) is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on advancing critical metals projects that power next-generation technologies. With a growing portfolio of promising assets—including the NMX East Gallium-Rubidium-Cesium Project in Québec, the Discovery Gallium-Rubidium-Cesium and polymetallic project in Québec, the Victory Antimony Project in British Columbia, and the newly acquired Prophecy Germanium-Gallium-Zinc Project in British Columbia, among others, the Company is strategically positioned to support the West’s transition to a secure and sustainable critical metals supply.
To stay updated on Quantum’s latest developments, sign up for our mailing list and visit www.quantumcriticalmetals.com and www.sedarplus.com.
Marcy Kiesman, CEO
Telephone: 604.428.2900 or 604.339.2243
Email: info@quantumcriticalmetals.com
Website: www.quantumcriticalmetals.com
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information or statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which may include, without limitation, statements that address the upcoming work programs, and other statements relating to the business, financial and technical prospects of the Company. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements.
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