International Graphite Ltd (ASX:IG6) has offered strong evidence the Springdale Graphite Project is capable of producing a low-cost but high-quality graphite concentrate with results from its first floatation tests on Springdale graphite, producing grades up to 97.4% total graphitic carbon (TGC).
The typical industry standard benchmark for battery-quality graphite is about 95% TGC, meaning IG6 has exceeded this baseline with its first test.
Reverse circulation (RC) drilling samples were used for two conventional sighter laboratory floatation tests, specifically 6-metre composites with an average grade of 20.5% TGC from 14 metres of depth.
IG6 considers the results of said test to be “excellent”, having achieved graphite recovery into concentrate of up to 93.7% and concentrate grades above 97% TGC.
Three new discoveries; more drilling to come
“The results provide further evidence that graphite mineralisation at Springdale is amenable to a simple low-cost flotation process and could produce high quality, low impurity concentrate suitable for battery anode material processing,” International Graphite managing director and CEO Andrew Worland said.
“Since June last year, we have completed more than 11,000 metres of drilling. As well as infill on the existing resource, we have focused on new targets identified by an earlier aero magnetic survey.
“So far, we have made three new discoveries with assays still pending for RC drilling at SDE_1. Drilling is continuing within the existing mineral resource and at Springdale Central, with further drilling likely at SDE_1 to conclude the current campaign.
“We are pleased with how the Springdale Graphite Project and our downstream facilities at Collie are being developed and integrated and advancing towards becoming Western Australia’s first mine to market producer of battery anode material.”