Global Lithium Resources Ltd (ASX:GL1) has achieved what it describes as “excellent” improvements in lithia recovery from ongoing optimisation test work on the Manna Lithium Project Whole-of-Ore (WoO) flotation flowsheet.
The company focused optimisation efforts on magnetic separation and mica pre-flotation stages, subsequently achieving an increase of lithium oxide recoveries from 70% to 75% for spodumene composite ore samples.
Further optimisation will concentrate on improving recoveries through reduced slimes losses, reprocessing of magnetic separation tails and optimising spodumene flotation circuit operating conditions through engagement with reagent suppliers.
Increased recovery improves economics
“The metallurgical flowsheet for Manna is now well defined and the process team has been strongly focused on maximising lithia recovery,” Global Lithium project director Dr Tony Chamberlain said.
“The additional 5% spodumene recovery will significantly improve the overall project economics of the Manna Project through extra spodumene concentrate production and additional revenue generated for the same plant throughput.
“The team believes there is further opportunity to increase lithia recovery through reducing slimes losses within the milling circuit.
“This will be examined over the coming months along with additional ore sorting trials.
“Global Lithium will continue to progress the DFS and examine opportunities to further enhance the project economics through higher process recoveries and optimisation of the flowsheet to reduce overall capital and operating costs.”
Overall, the company’s test work continues to produce lithium spodumene concentrate (SC) with grades greater than 5.5% lithium oxide.
A total of 66 flotation tests have been completed by GL1, producing an SC product of 5.6%-6.5% lithium oxide and 0.4% to 0.8% iron oxide.
The next phase of ore testing will begin imminently at Steinert’s industrial test work facility in Perth.