Global Lithium has achieved 78 per cent lithia recovery from metallurgical testwork at its Manna lithium project in Western Australia.
The latest optimisation testwork focused on refining the desliming and flotation stages, with the metallurgical flowsheet for the upcoming definitive feasibility study (DFS) now locked in.
An eight per cent increase in lithia recovery has been achieved since the commencement of the optimisation efforts.
Global Lithium conducted a comprehensive series of tests, including 150 batch and two locked cycle flotation tests, consistently producing a spodumene concentrate with over 5.5 per cent lithium oxide (Li20) content.
“This increase in overall lithia recovery and finalisation of the spodumene beneficiation flow sheet design fundamentally de-risks Manna and is a terrific result by the project development team as we near completion of the project DFS,” Global Lithium executive chair Ron Mitchell said.
“The current Manna resource stands at 51.6 million tonnes at 1 per cent Li20 which positions the project as the second largest lithium resource in the Kalgoorlie lithium province.
“The 78 per cent lithia recovery delivered through this extensive metallurgical testwork program is testament to the unique characteristics of the Manna orebody and is expected to have a positive impact on the overall project economics of Manna, through extra spodumene concentrate production and additional revenue.”
The whole-of-ore (WOO) flotation process was a key focus in the testwork, aiming to improve lithia recovery by optimising desliming and flotation stages.
The successful reconfiguration of the metallurgical flowsheet and the reduction in desliming particle size cut points have contributed significantly to the improved recovery rates, enhancing the operability of the Manna flowsheet.
As the DFS nears completion, the locked and finalised metallurgical flowsheet for Manna signifies a critical advancement for Global Lithium, promising a strong economic outlook for the project.
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