Lithium Plus Minerals Limited (ASX:LPM) has announced positive results from ore sorting trials on the Lei deposit, part of the Bynoe Lithium Project in the Northern Territory, Australia. The trials, utilizing ultra-violet (UV) laser sorting technology, demonstrated significant uplifts in lithium head-grades and a meaningful reduction in ore mass, potentially enhancing the viability of a direct shipped ore (DSO) commercialization pathway for the Lei deposit.
Our focus at Lei has been on establishing a simple, low-capital, direct shipped ore development pathway. As part of ongoing metallurgical testing, a first-pass ore sorting trial was undertaken to better understand the potential of the Lei ore to respond to simple beneficiation. These initial ore sorting results demonstrate that UV-laser technology is an ideal fit for Lei's simple mineralogical profile, providing a material upgrade in lithium head-grades with impressive waste rejection potential. This is important, as significantly less ore, at a much higher grade, could be delivered to our offtake partner, CANMAX, reducing processing, transport and logistics costs to enhance future potential economic outcomes for both offtake parties.
The ore sorting trials on the Lei deposit have shown promising results, indicating the potential for enhanced economic outcomes in a DSO commercialization pathway. The use of UV-laser sorting technology resulted in a significant uplift in lithium head-grades, with notable reductions in ore mass and waste. This development could lead to reduced operating costs, particularly in transportation and downstream processing, providing a positive outlook for the company's future economic prospects. With ongoing plans for further test work to optimize the sorting process, Lithium Plus Minerals aims to continue advancing its ore development pathway for the Lei deposit, potentially paving the way for a more efficient and cost-effective commercialization strategy.