First production of spodumene concentrate was achieved during the commissioning phase of the full Stage 1 Dense Media Separation (DMS) processing plant, with the introduction of pegmatite ore into the processing circuit. The DMS processing plant performance has achieved target on this initial run with assay of spodumene concentrate at 5.53% Li2O produced, in line with the planned production profile. This initial spodumene concentrate production was achieved ahead of schedule and paves the way for the ramp up of the DMS processing plant to nameplate capacity in the coming weeks.
Highlights:
- Initial spodumene concentrate production has successfully been achieved during the commissioning of the DMS processing plant. The concentrate grade of 5.53% Li2O is extremely encouraging at this early stage of the ramp up.
- The commissioning of the DMS processing plant has proceeded through various stages, with water commissioning completed, followed by the introduction of pegmatite ore to the plant.
- Commissioning continues with the review of the processing circuits, including balancing of the pegmatite ore feed input and the density loading of the DMS units./li>
- Construction costs remain within the US$65 million capital development budget, with only minor optimisation works remaining./li>
- Opencast mining activities at the Ngoualana deposit continue to build the run of mine (ROM) stockpile, with over 350 000 t of ore with average grade of 1.17% Li2O ready for processing./li>
- The mining and processing operation at Bougouni has now commenced 24/7 operations./li>
- The mining licence transfer has been lodged and accepted by the Mali Mines Department (the DNGM), and the final stages of compliance are near completion. The issue of the new mining decree is pending final signature from the President of Mali.
Bernard Aylward, CEO of Kodal Minerals, remarked:
“The first production of spodumene concentrate at Bougouni marks a major milestone for Kodal and I would like to thank our entire team for this achievement, which wholly reflects the dedication and effort of all those involved. We are confident that this progress will continue into the commercial production phase, and our project team will continue to work towards our 10 000 t per month target at Bougouni.
“The operational focus over the coming weeks will be the finalisation of commissioning and stress testing of the DMS processing plant as we ramp up to achieve nameplate capacity and steady state production. We look forward to confirming our first shipment of lithium spodumene concentrate to Hainan in China by the end of this quarter.”