Bernice Canyon, Nevada, December 8, 2025
American Antimony Corporation has formed a partnership with Silver Opportunity Partners LLC, focusing on metallurgical testing of antimony-bearing materials from its project in Nevada. This agreement aims to strengthen the supply chain for this critical mineral in the U.S. Amid rising global demand and external dependencies, the collaboration is a strategic move towards increasing domestic production and enhancing national security.
Austin, Texas – American Antimony Corporation, known as Xtra Energy Corporation, has embarked on a significant partnership with Silver Opportunity Partners LLC, a subsidiary of Sunshine Silver Mining & Refining Company. This collaboration, formalized through a Metallurgical Testing Agreement (MTA), focuses on evaluating antimony-bearing materials sourced from American Antimony’s project in Bernice Canyon, Nevada. By assessing these materials, the agreement aims to explore the potential for expanding a U.S.-based supply chain for this critical mineral.
The MTA involves American Antimony supplying high-grade antimony ore samples to Silver Opportunity Partners, which will conduct metallurgical tests. These tests will serve multiple purposes, including estimating antimony recoveries, identifying impurities, assessing reagent consumption, and determining how the material can fit into existing processing flowsheets. Initial tests will be executed in collaboration with third-party laboratories and SSMRC’s technical team. Success in these initial assessments could pave the way for an expanded testing program to evaluate full-scale processing operations.
Mac J. Shahsavar, the CEO of American Antimony Corp., underscored the importance of this collaboration, framing it as a pivotal step in creating a fully integrated, American-controlled supply chain for antimony. In light of rising global demand and the predominance of Chinese control over supply, establishing domestic refining capabilities for antimony emerges as a strategic necessity to bolster national security and economic self-reliance.
### Understanding Antimony’s Role
Antimony, classified as a federally designated critical mineral, plays a vital role in numerous industries including defense systems, semiconductor manufacturing, energy storage, and flame retardants. The United States heavily relies on foreign sources for its supply of antimony, with China currently dominating this market. With limited domestic production, the need for establishing secure U.S. sources becomes crucial for both industrial sustainability and national policy objectives.
American Antimony Corporation is dedicated to enhancing supply chain independence concerning critical minerals, targeting the development of a portfolio of high-grade U.S.-based projects. Their focus on domestic production aims not only to fulfill industrial demands but also align with broader efforts to improve national security.
### Details of the American Antimony Project
Located in Bernice Canyon, Churchill County, Nevada, the American Antimony Project spans 4,421 acres encompassing 214 lode claims, surrounding historically significant mining sites, including the Antimony King Mine. This project is strategically positioned to tap into local mineral resources, with eight confirmed past-producing antimony mines within the claims. It aims to extract antimony for use in various applications, ranging from batteries and semiconductors to military and fire-retardant manufacturing.
### Strengthening Domestic Production
This partnership aligns seamlessly with ongoing initiatives aimed at bolstering domestic antimony production and processing capabilities to mitigate reliance on external sources. By investing in an independent supply chain, local entrepreneurs and businesses can contribute to economic resilience and sustainability in the face of rising global market challenges.
Conclusion
American Antimony Corporation’s recent partnership with Silver Opportunity Partners marks a promising development in the drive for a robust domestic supply chain for antimony, a key mineral critical to various industries. By fostering innovation and leveraging local resources, there lies an exciting opportunity for Texas entrepreneurs to not only advance the state’s economy but also enhance national security through secured mineral supply chains.
Small businesses and industries in Texas are called to rally behind this local endeavor. Supporting such initiatives not only promotes economic growth but strengthens community ties around shared goals of innovation and self-reliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the Metallurgical Testing Agreement (MTA) between American Antimony Corporation and Silver Opportunity Partners LLC?
The MTA aims to evaluate antimony-bearing material from American Antimony’s project in Bernice Canyon, Nevada, by conducting metallurgical tests to estimate antimony recoveries, identify potential impurities, assess reagent consumption, and determine the material’s suitability for integration into existing processing flowsheets.
What is the significance of antimony as a critical mineral?
Antimony is essential for defense systems, semiconductors, energy storage, and flame-retardant materials. Its designation as a critical mineral underscores its importance to national security and economic resilience.
Where is the American Antimony Project located?
The American Antimony Project is located in Bernice Canyon, Churchill County, Nevada, approximately 70 km northeast of Fallon. It encompasses 214 lode claims covering 4,421 acres and surrounds the historically documented Antimony King Mine.
What is the role of Xtra Energy Corporation in the antimony supply chain?
Operating as Xtra Energy Corporation, American Antimony is focused on advancing critical mineral supply chain independence. The company is developing a portfolio of high-grade, U.S.-based projects with near-term production potential, aiming to deliver scalable domestic supply solutions in alignment with national security and industrial priorities.
Why is developing domestic antimony production important?
Developing domestic antimony production reduces reliance on foreign sources, strengthens national security, and enhances economic resilience by ensuring a stable supply of this critical mineral for various industrial applications.
Key Features of the American Antimony Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Bernice Canyon, Churchill County, Nevada, approximately 70 km northeast of Fallon |
| Project Area | 214 lode claims covering 4,421 acres |
| Historical Significance | Surrounds the Antimony King Mine and encompasses all other documented antimony producers in the Bernice Mining District |
| Target Mineral | Antimony, used in batteries, semiconductors, fire retardants, paints, enamels, and military applications |
| Past Production | Eight confirmed past-producing antimony mines on the company’s claims |
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