Global Lithium's (ASX: GL1) Breakthrough: Manna Ore Sorting Delivers Stellar Results

Key Highlights

 - Spodumene recovery exceeds 97% across a range of ore samples.

- High iron rejection rates above 90%.

- Significant upgrade of low-grade ore from 0.56% to 0.90% Li2O.

- Increased mill feed grade from 1.0% to 1.2% Li2O.

- Incorporation of ore sorting technology into the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS).

Global Lithium Resources Limited (ASX: GL1) has announced impressive results from their recent ore sorting trials at the Manna Lithium Project, located 100km east of Kalgoorlie in Western Australia. This trial marks a significant milestone for the company, confirming the viability and efficiency of multi-sensor ore sorting technology in improving the economic prospects of the project.

The trials, conducted on six ore samples weighing between 150 to 300kg, demonstrated exceptional spodumene recovery rates exceeding 97%, verified through QEMSCAN mineralogical analysis. This high recovery rate spans a variety of ore grades, underscoring the robustness of the ore sorting technology.

Furthermore, the technology has shown outstanding efficiency in iron rejection, achieving rates over 90% across bulk samples. This capability is crucial in enhancing the purity and market value of the lithium concentrate produced.

A particularly notable outcome of the trials is the significant upgrade achieved in low-grade ore. By enhancing lithium oxide (Li2O) content from 0.56% to 0.90%, the ore sorting process has unlocked the potential for economically processing lower-grade ores, which were previously considered uneconomical. This upgrade not only boosts the project's resource base but also enhances its overall profitability.

The success of these trials has prompted Global Lithium to integrate ore sorting technology into the main process flowsheet. This integration is expected to increase the mill feed grade from 1.0% to 1.2% Li2O, potentially leading to higher annual production quantities of spodumene concentrate.

Dr Tony Chamberlain, Project Director at Global Lithium, commented on the successful trials, stating, “This final round of trials confirms ore sorting is highly amenable to the Manna Lithium deposit. The technology has demonstrated impressive spodumene recoveries, while rejecting a large percentage of associated waste material across a range of ore samples throughout the deposit.”

(Source: $GL1 ASX Announcement. )

The Manna Lithium Project, with its enhanced ore sorting process, is now poised to deliver higher production efficiency and increased economic returns. These positive outcomes will be incorporated into the project's Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS), slated for completion in the second half of 2024.

Global Lithium's announcement signifies a critical advancement in the company's operational capabilities and a promising step towards maximizing the value of its lithium assets. The successful implementation of ore sorting technology not only enhances resource utilization but also underscores Global Lithium's commitment to innovation and efficiency in the mining sector. As the demand for lithium continues to surge, driven by the global transition to renewable energy and electric vehicles, Global Lithium Resources is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market.

$GL1 stocks were trading at AU$0.273 per share as of 3:37 PM AEST, 4th July 2024.