EMP Metals (CSE: EMPS) is set to begin the commissioning of a direct lithium extraction pilot facility in Saskatchewan. The facility is set to use DLE tech from Koch Technology Solutions, marking the first time the tech will be used in Canada.
The pilot facility is expected to process 4,500 litres per day of feed brine, with the pilot expected to closely resemble field operating conditions. Feed brine is to be provided from the Viewfield area, where lithium concentrations have tested as high as 259 mg/L. Average feed grades for the pilot plant have been confirmed at 185 mg/L.
The operation is expected to run continuously over the next few months, with the pilot facility to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The pilot plant also includes a pre-filtration skid and a heater skid, which will ensure the feed brine is provided to the facility at 60 degrees Celsius for optimal processing conditions.
READ: EMP Metals Reports After-Tax NPV(8%) Of US$1.07 Billion For Viewfield Lithium Project
Data from the pilot facility is anticipated to be used for detailed engineering work required for a stage 1 commercial facility. The stage one facility, estimated to cost US$160 million, is currently expected to produce 3,000 tonnes per year of battery grade lithium carbonate.
“The commencement, commissioning, and continuous run time at the pilot facility is a substantial milestone for EMP Metals and ROK Resources. The efforts by our local team, vendors, and contractors supporting the project have been instrumental in our early success. The data set we will collect over the next few months is expected to add significant value to our detailed engineering work for the initial stage 1 commercial facility located in Southern Saskatchewan,” commented Paul Schubach, COO of EMP Metals.
EMP Metals last traded at $0.345 on the CSE.
Information for this briefing was found via Sedar and the sources mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
