Fera Science Ltd. has acquired Qotho Minerals for an undisclosed amount. Qotho Minerals, established in 2013, specializes in designing, implementing, and operating Proficiency Testing Schemes (PTS), and manufacturing and certifying Reference Materials for the global Minerals Industry. The company holds SANAS ISO 17043 accreditation as a Proficiency Testing Scheme Provider and ISO 17034 accreditation as a Certified Reference Material Producer.
Qotho introduced its first Chrome PT Scheme in June 2013 and has since expanded to operate nine schemes, encompassing 22 samples, six times per annum. In the 2018 financial year, Qotho circulated 1382 PT samples. These schemes enable laboratories to assess the accuracy and comparability of their results with peers, providing crucial data for internal validation by plant metallurgists. Additionally, Qotho generates matrix-matched Reference Materials (QRM’s) for internal laboratory QA/QC and for metallurgical and geological exploration quality control.
Qotho Minerals currently services over 130 laboratories across sub-Saharan Africa and internationally, with clients in countries including Australia, Botswana, China, DRC, Germany, Mexico, Namibia, The Netherlands, Peru, Philippines, Tanzania, USA, UK, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. This acquisition by Fera Science Ltd. represents a strategic move to expand its capabilities and market presence within the critical minerals sector.
The integration of Qotho Minerals' specialized expertise in proficiency testing and reference material production is expected to enhance Fera Science Ltd.'s service portfolio. Synergies are anticipated through combining Qotho's accredited schemes and global client network with Fera's operational framework, aiming to deliver a more comprehensive suite of analytical and quality assurance solutions. The combined entity is poised to strengthen its position in supporting the global minerals industry with robust quality control and analytical validation services.