Name of the Project
SiLeach large-scale pilot plant (LSPP).

Location
Australia.

Client 
Lithium Australia.

Project Description
The SiLeach process is a fluoride-accelerated sulphuric-acid leach developed at elevated temperatures but at atmospheric pressure. Commercialisation of the process will allow for the exploitation of micas, the most common lithium minerals, which are currently considered waste. 

The target feed material during the first 12 months of the LSPP’s operation will be primary ore mined close to the proposed location of the plant, so crushing, grinding and concentration circuits will be required at the feed end of the plant, an additional equipment cost. 

The SiLeach LSPP is designed to produce lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) at an annualised rate of 2 500 t from an estimated 27 500 t of lepidolite mica feed to a maximum grade of 4.5% lithium oxide. 

This output is about one-tenth the scale of output of a full-scale commercial lithium carbonate production facility. Actual output will depend on the final feed grades achieved from a particular source, the likelihood being that locally sourced feed will be of a lower grade and produce less output than the 2 500 t design capacity. 

While the primary aim of the project is to produce lithium chemicals, production of by-products is also integral to its development. Potentially, by-products, such as potassium sulphate, sodium silicate, caesium and rubidium, can also be produced using the SiLeach process. 

Potential Job Creation
Not stated.

Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
Not stated.

Value
Not stated.

Duration
Commissioning and production are currently scheduled for early 2021. 

Latest Developments
Lithium Australia has committed to developing an LSPP and has approved the front-end engineering and design. The company will procure long-lead equipment to reduce the timeframe through to commissioning and production.

The company expects to complete agreements in the first quarter of 2018, resulting in the supply of the LSPP site, infrastructure (power, water, gas, road and rail), major reagent supplies and process feed material. 

Key Contracts and Suppliers
None stated.

On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
Lithium Australia, tel +61 8 6145 0288, fax +61 8 9475 0847 or email info@lithium.com.