Metallurgical tests carried out by Green Technology Metals Ltd (ASX:GT1, OTC:GTMLF) on ore from the North Aubry deposit of its flagship Seymour Project in Ontario, Canada, have yielded an “impressive” 71.6% recovery to a high-quality spodumene concentrate of up to 6.8% Li2O.
The test program aimed at assessing the heavy liquid separation (HLS) and dense media separation (DMS) techniques of achieving spodumene concentrates has confirmed high lithium recovery and grade exceeding current market benchmarks.
The news has cheered investors, with GT1 shares up by as much as 14.3% in ASX trading this morning to A$0.48.
Cost-efficient process
The results described as “impressive” have been achieved without the use of a flotation circuit and confirm the feasibility of a simple and cost-efficient DMS-only process.
DMS is a conventional and widely accepted process for separating spodumene minerals from waste minerals through a gravity-based method.
The HLS tests, meanwhile, were additions conducted on composite samples to assess the performance of a larger-scale DMS process.
Bulk HLS coarse material and belt magnet.
Milestone achievement
“The results from this DMS test work are impressive and hold great significance,” GT1 chief executive officer Luke Cox said.
“The outstanding recovery rates and high grades achieved in this DMS phase are on par with some of the world's leading hard rock spodumene lithium projects.
“These results provide strong support for a simple DMS modularised processing facility, eliminating the need for flotation and maintaining a simplified process flowsheet, which will ultimately streamline the approval process and minimise operational risks for the upcoming Seymour Lithium Project.”
Future work
The company believes that the results are a reliable indicator of the commercial performance of DMS, which enhances the project's economics.
It will be simpler and more cost-effective to produce a coarse DMS product, which is more desirable for the production of lithium hydroxide due to its reduced fines content, making it more appealing to end users.
Further HLS testing of the deposit and DMS pilot work using a feed that represents the intended mine plan will be carried out to enhance confidence in the project.
Commitment to Indigenous heritage
Separately, the North American-focused lithium exploration and development company acknowledged the opportunity to work with its indigenous partners in their Traditional Territory.
GT1 has pledged to build, foster and encourage a respectful relationship with Indigenous Peoples based on the principles of mutual trust, respect, reciprocity and collaboration in the spirit of reconciliation.
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