Introduction

Engaged by the project proponent and a global bank to provide independent technical review of a greenfields lithium open cut mine, beneficiation and lithium carbonate plant development.

Mandate

Palaris’ mandate was to provide comprehensive due diligence across all aspects of the proposed USD 400 million mine and process facilities development, inclusive of downstream lithium ore conversion into lithium carbonate.  

Mining was via open pit, feeding a fixed crushing circuit. The lithium carbonate circuit comprised both pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processing aspects. Pyrometallurgical review included the gas fired kiln design and equipment selection along with energy balance.

Approach

Palaris brought together a full multi-disciplinary review team including local mining specialists to ensure regional alignment of cost and productivity assumptions.  

The review was originally focused on a definitive feasibility study for the project. Front end engineering design was ongoing at the time of review and Palaris incorporated design updates in real-time into its due diligence.

Outcome

On completion of the review the mine proponent entered into further detailed design studies.