Name of the Project
Hombre Muerto West (HMW) project.

Location
South American lithium triangle, which spans the borders of Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile.

Project Owner/s
Galan Lithium.

Project Description
A positive review of preliminary pond design layout has confirmed a production rate of up to 25 000 t/y of lithium carbonate equivalent at the HMW project by optimising the continuous terrain available. The final production rate will be confirmed during the next stage of the feasibility studies.

The new design enables Galan to potentially develop the HMW project in two stages. Stage 1 could have the advantage of using the most favourable terrain for minimising the upfront capital ratio in terms of $/t of lithium carbonate equivalent a year.

The terrain with a higher level of incline could be used in Stage 2. Galan also has further terrain optionality to the West (at Rana de Sal) that could be used for more evaporation ponds or as a halite storage. Overall, this staged approach optimises the capex profile and provides flexibility for a lower capital expenditure startup.

The total area of the new design is estimated at seven-million square metres, an increase from 5.5-million.

Potential Job Creation
Not stated.

Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
Not stated.

Capital Expenditure
Not stated.

Planned Start/End Date
Not stated.

Latest Developments
Ad-Infinitum is advancing well with the design of the pond pilot plant aimed at producing brine concentrate of 6% lithium on site. The process flow diagram and equipment list are complete, and the civil and mechanical design is well advanced.

The planned construction of the pilot ponds is being discussed with local contractors. Galan has also been advancing the analysis for selecting the preferred process design for the next feasibility studies. The Galan study team has defined this task as the next critical milestone to be completed before seeking expressions of interest for the major engineering contract for the HMW project.

The testwork for the battery-grade lithium carbonate has been slightly delayed,  owing to the continual spread of Covid-19 in Antofagasta, Chile.

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
Ad-Infinitum (feasibility study work).

Contact Details for Project Information
Galan Lithium, tel +61 8 9322 6283 or email admin@galanlithium.com.au.