Premier African Minerals’ Zulu lithium and tantalum project in Zimbabwe is moving into a new operational phase focused on optimisation following the recent completion of commissioning tests.
The company has initiated a further test run specifically designed to optimise the flotation plant. The primary objective is to achieve the continuous production of high-grade spodumene concentrate, specifically material exceeding 5% Li₂O, which is classified as Saleable Concentrate.
While the plant has successfully produced Saleable Concentrate on multiple occasions, this new phase is critical to demonstrating it can do so consistently and reliably.
To support this next stage of testing, limited mining operations have recommenced at Zulu to ensure a continuous supply of ore is available at the Run-of-Mine (ROM) pad, with feeding into the plant expected to begin imminently.
"This next phase is a fundamental step in the ongoing validation process of the operating capacity of the Zulu plant,” said company managing director Graham Hill.
“Demonstrating the ability to consistently float material at grade over sustained periods is essential to ensuring that all operational aspects are aligned for the future of Zulu."
He further said that the success of this optimisation work is pivotal to the project's financial future, adding that these results "will provide the foundation for growth, whether through new investment or additional off-take funding, as those discussions with potential funders continue to advance."
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished
