Piedmont Lithium (NASDAQ:PLL) Inc (ASX:PLL, NASDAQ:PLL, XETRA:) has popped the bubbly after partner Sayona Mining Ltd (ASX:SYA) produced its first saleable batch of lithium concentrate at the North American Lithium (NAL) operation in Québec, Canada.
PLL’s strategic partner generated 1,200 tonnes of high-quality spodumene concentrate (at a 6% lithium grade), demonstrating its ability to create commercial-grade ore in a new milestone for the NAL restart.
Sayona continues to make progress on the commissioning front, with NAL on track and within budget to make its first lithium shipment in July 2023.
The breakthrough puts Sayona and Piedmont front and centre as they work towards their ultimate goal: to create North America’s leading hard rock lithium producer and ride the green energy wave.
"Electrification revolution"
Sayona managing director Brett Lynch said creating the first batch of saleable concentrate reflected the improvements the company had made to enhance production.
He congratulated the team for delivering the milestone on time and within budget: “Having witnessed firsthand the operations restart, I can only express admiration for this achievement, which demonstrates we have the expertise to run a successful operation.
“As the electrification revolution continues, Québec is in pole position thanks to its sustainable hydropower, leading infrastructure and proximity to market.
“For Sayona, the opportunity is only getting bigger, and we are proud to play our part as North America’s emerging, leading hard rock lithium producer.”
NAL is piqued to be the continent’s most significant source of hard rock lithium production, boosting Québec’s vision for a domestic battery sector that covers all ends of the supply chain.
More drilling on the cards
Sayona has kept its nose to the grindstone on the hunt for lithium, with more than 50,000 metres of drilling planned at both NAL and the neighbouring Vallée Lithium Project.
It’s likely to be one of the biggest drilling campaigns Québec sees this year and work will be supported by the C$50 million Sayona gleaned from a flow-through share raising earlier this month.
High-quality spodumene concentrate from NAL.
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