Giyani Metals Corp (TSX-V:EMM, OTC:CATPF) is advancing construction on its Johannesburg demonstration plant, crucial for optimizing battery-grade manganese production and de-risking the K.Hill project ahead of full-scale commercial operations.
Following the completion and drawdown of a US$26 million funding package, construction at the Demo Plant has accelerated, Giyani said in a statement.
The Demo Plant, a 1:10 engineering scale of the Commercial Plant, will consist of nine process modules.
Installation of the main steam and ventilation systems has begun, with the construction program designed to ensure efficient cold commissioning and a swift ramp-up to meet offtaker specifications.
Giyani has also started simulation test work on the DCS software, with the development of process standard operating procedures underway to facilitate a smooth transition to full-scale production.
Meanwhile, an on-site, independent, ISO-certified hydrometallurgical laboratory will provide rapid assay turnaround times and support effective Demo Plant operation.
Danny Keating, CEO of Giyani, told shareholders that procurement and construction activities have accelerated rapidly.
“The scale of the Demo Plant is exceptional and, once constructed, it will be one of the largest battery-grade manganese testing and optimization facilities in the world,” Keating said.
“The value of this facility as a tool to optimize our proprietary flowsheet and reduce operating costs will be immeasurable.”
The project is on track for commissioning and production of battery-grade manganese in Q4 2024 for offtaker testing and qualification.
The company is also developing the K.Hill battery-grade manganese project in Botswana.