During the last quarter of 2024 Firebird Metals Ltd was busy across its key projects, making progress on its Chinese LMFP battery strategy and forging partnerships to develop the Oakover manganese project in Western Australia.
Chinese LMFP battery strategy
During the quarter, Firebird’s subsidiary, Hunan Firebird Battery Technology Co., Ltd. (HFBT), received preliminary design approval from the Jinshi High-Tech Industrial Park Committee for its proposed battery-grade high-purity manganese sulphate plant in Jinshi, Hunan, China.
In less than 12 months since its incorporation, HFBT has secured all critical permits and remains on schedule and within budget.
In a key technological breakthrough, Firebird’s pilot calcining kiln demonstrated energy savings of up to 70% compared to conventional kilns, reducing energy consumption to 80-100 kWh per tonne of feed.
This equates to a cost reduction of US$30 per tonne, or 5% of total production costs.
Firebird entered into a strategic collaboration agreement with Central South University to develop a processing method for Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate (LMFP) as a cathode active material (CAM).
This further strengthens its LMFP strategy. Early-stage test work is set to begin at Firebird’s R&D centre in Jinshi, with initial results expected in Q1 2025.
Oakover project developments
Firebird signed an agreement with the Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation (KNAC) concerning Mining Lease 52/1086.
This agreement covers key commercial considerations, including financial benefits upon production, as well as cultural heritage protection and environmental management.
Oakover remains central to Firebird’s long-term strategy, providing ore for its battery-grade manganese sulphate plants.
Key workstreams for the next 12 months will focus on environmental studies and securing necessary regulatory approvals.
Farm-out of non-core manganese tenements
Firebird completed the farm-out of an 80% interest in its Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) Manganese Assets in Western Australia’s East Pilbara region to Macro Metals Limited (ASX: M4M). The agreement includes minimum expenditure commitments and drilling requirements, allowing Firebird to focus on its core manganese projects.
Corporate and financial overview
As of December 31, 2024, Firebird held a cash position of A$3.1 million.
The company also received A$889,546 through the Australian Government’s R&D Tax Incentive program, bolstering its financial reserves.