Highlights

  • ZMI acquires Meclex, gaining proprietary ARGO and VOLTA hydrometallurgical technologies
  • Technologies target recovery of zinc, lead, silver, and critical minerals from industrial residues
  • Kildare Zinc Project exploration and integration of ARGO to enhance project economics

Zinc of Ireland NL (ASX:ZMI) has signed a binding agreement to acquire 100% of Meclex, a Netherlands-based company specializing in hydrometallurgical metal recovery technologies, ARGO and VOLTA. These proprietary processes are designed to extract valuable metals, including zinc, lead, silver, and critical minerals like germanium and gallium, from industrial residues and recycling streams, providing both economic and environmental benefits.

The acquisition strengthens ZMI’s position across the zinc supply chain, complementing exploration at the Kildare Zinc Project in Ireland, where a 4,000m drilling program will test extensions and regional step-outs. ARGO technology is expected to improve project economics by processing zinc smelter residues. The move comes amid rising energy costs, stricter carbon compliance, and regulatory pressure on hazardous waste in European heavy industry, making ZMI’s newly acquired technologies timely for addressing both sustainability and resource efficiency challenges.

Exploration & Technology Integration

ZMI has commenced a 4,000m diamond drilling program at the Kildare Zinc Project, located 40 km southwest of Dublin. Phase One, starting July 2026, will test extensions and regional step-outs while investigating the presence of critical minerals such as germanium, gallium, and silver. The company plans to integrate ARGO technology to treat zinc smelter residue streams expected from Kildare, enhancing recovery rates and project economics. By combining exploration and processing technologies, ZMI aims to unlock additional value from its existing portfolio while addressing environmental challenges associated with metal production. The integration positions ZMI to provide low-cost, low-carbon alternatives to traditional pyrometallurgical processes, directly addressing rising regulatory and energy pressures across European heavy industry.

Board, Management & Funding

ZMI has appointed Mark Pearce as Non-Executive Chairman effective 15 April 2026, and Greg Ross as CEO immediately, with current Chairman Peter Huljich transitioning to Non-Executive Director. Pearce brings extensive experience in ASX-listed resource companies, while Ross has 35+ years in engineering, mining, and technology commercialization. To fund exploration and technology development, ZMI completed a bookbuild raising A$5.5 million (before costs). The combination of experienced leadership, financial backing, and access to Meclex’s proprietary ARGO and VOLTA technologies positions ZMI to capitalize on growing demand for critical minerals and sustainable metal recovery solutions. The company is now strategically aligned to enhance project economics, meet regulatory pressures, and address environmental challenges in the zinc and lead markets