BlackEarth Minerals NL (ASX: BEM) has signed a contract with Chinese metals institute BGRIMM to finalise process engineering related matters as part of the Company’s definitive feasibility study (DFS) on its Madagascan, Maniry Graphite Project.
BlackEarth Minerals Managing Director, Tom Revy, said BGRIMM (Beijing General Research Institute of Mining & Metallurgy) will undertake a 2-Stage test programme which is planned to be completed in Q1 of 2020.
Stage 1 consists of laboratory scale test work based on an initial 250kg sample of Maniry graphite ore.
Results from this stage will be used to confirm previous work carried out at ALS Perth and to provide optimal process flow, reagent systems, industrial equipment selection and process operating conditions, for the Stage 2 large scale process pilot test which is outlined below.
The subsequent Stage 2 large scale pilot test programme will use approximately 60 tonnes of Maniry graphite ore.
This stage will be used to optimise the Maniry flow sheet, provide final equipment specifications, and the results will also provide significant input into the Project’s final Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA).
The programme will also be used to generate substantial concentrate which will assist in finalising off-take arrangements.
“Over the past 12 months BlackEarth has achieved several significant milestones which are critical in progressing the Maniry Project into production, which will subsequently move BlackEarth into cashflow,” Mr Revy said.
The company’s advanced stage of development is testament to the commitment, experience and networks of the BlackEarth team and importantly demonstrate the Company’s learnings from others operating in the graphite space.”
BGRIMM is a national institute engaged in R&D and engineering service in relation to mineral resource developments, advanced material technology and products, as well as mining, mineral processing, metallurgy and the recycling of metallic resources.
