Appointment within the AREVA group

Press Release

ACTIVITES / MINES

May 31, 2011

AREVA, ranked first in the global nuclear power industry and a key player in uranium mining, and Rhodia, leader in the production of rare-earth based formulations, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop deposits containing a mix of uranium and rare earth elements. 

Under the terms of the agreement, the partners will combine their respective expertise and competencies to put together joint offers for the development and exploitation of hitherto unworked deposits containing the two strategic resources. 

Eventually, the two parties could link up to conduct joint technical audits or studies of identified deposits, create specific joint-ventures or co-participate in mining projects carried out by AREVA or third parties. 

Sébastien de Montessus, Senior Executive Vice President of AREVA’s Mining Business Group said: “This MoU paves the way for the development of deposits with untapped potential and testifies to the synergies that exist between our two groups. It will give AREVA access to new uranium sources while contributing to ensuring supplies in strategic metals to companies such as Rhodia." 

Frédéric Carencotte, Industrial Director of Rhodia Rare Earth Systems, said “This agreement represents a new step in the diversification policy initiated by the group to secure its access to the most sought-after rare earths. The combination of our industrial expertise in the treatment and purification of rare earth concentrates and AREVA’s know-how in uranium mining is a key factor for the success of the project”.