Premier African Minerals Ltd (AIM:PREM, OTC:PRMMF) has provided an update on the status of its Zulu lithium and tantalum plant in Zimbabwe, focusing on plans to address production issues and improve operations.
Experts from the engineering group Enprotec, along with the reagents supplier, identified problems with the plant's processing of spodumene, a key lithium mineral, citing inconsistent grades and recovery rates.
These issues were linked to incorrect chemical dosing and excessive time in the cleaning process.
To fix this, Premier plans to install custom inserts in the cleaning stages to improve performance. The cost for these modifications is expected to be under $50,000, with fabrication taking around six weeks.
In addition, Premier is considering an alternative strategy, which involves installing a completely new flotation plant based on proven technology. This option remains on the table, but the current low-cost solution will be pursued first.
Premier is also working with other suppliers to explore alternative chemical treatments and is continuing fact-finding on future options for the Zulu project.
"The company previously reported on several options for the future of Zulu, all of which remain under consideration, and due diligence is being undertaken by potentially interested parties," Premier African said.