Cypress Development Corp (TSX-V:CYP, OTCQB:CYDVF) has reported a successful seven-day continuous test run at its pilot plant in Nevada and the extension of its lease at the facility to 2025.
Earlier this month, the company reported the successful start-up at the plant, which is extraction testing lithium-bearing claystone from its Clayton Valley lithium asset.
During the seven days, the plant operated at its designed feed rate of one ton per day of lithium claystone, noted the company.
"From an operating perspective, we are very pleased with how the pilot plant has performed to date," said Bill Willoughby, the CEO of Cypress Development in a statement.
"Most plant components ran throughout the seven days with only minor operating issues, achieving expected targets in materials handling, reagents, and water balance. Over 400 samples of leach solutions and solids were collected and shipped to ALS Global for analysis during the testing period. We look forward to seeing the analytical results and to resume testing in the new year," he added.
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As previously reported, the pilot plant, housed in a metallurgical facility in Amargosa Valley, 160km from the firm's project, uses chloride-based leaching combined with the Chemionex—Lionex process for Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE).
Also in today's statement, Cypress said its lease with del Sol Refining Inc had been amended, extending the term through 2025 and allowing Cypress the option to expand its use of the facility, including all of the 12,000 square-foot processing building at the site.
"The last year has shown us just how important it is to have access to a permitted testing facility, and the flexibility to be able to use it as we advance our lithium project," went on Willoughby.
"The amended lease gives us the time and room to expand beyond our requirements for our feasibility study. This is important given the likelihood we will want to continue testing.
"In addition to the lease, del Sol will continue to provide support through its personnel and other services, and we are pleased to have them as a valuable part of our team.
"With the pilot plant in operation, our personnel, consultants, and a strong treasury, Cypress is in an excellent position to advance our Clayton Valley Lithium Project into the New Year."
Contact the author at giles@proactiveinvestors.com