Century Lithium (LCE.V) continues to work to complete its definitive feasibility study on the flagship Clayton Valley lithium project in Nevada as the company is investigating a phased approach to reduce the impact of inflation on the initial capex projections.
Additionally, Century Lithium is looking into the possibility to monetize its sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) output which will be produced as co-product of the hydrochloric acid production. The latter is fully used in the lithium production process but there will be a substantial surplus of sodium hydroxide production which could potentially be sold to generate a by-product revenue.
Meanwhile the existing pilot plant continues to finetune the production parameters. Recent test work indicated the average grade of lithium in the intermediate solution increased to 14 g/t which is almost twice the grade the company previously disclosed in August. Meanwhile, the test work with Koch Technology Solutions focusing on Direct Lithium Extraction (‘DLE’) is ongoing and Century Lithium mentioned the test work is currently exceeding expectations (as the integration of the Koch equipment in the DLE area was a major contributor to the grade increase in the intermediate solution.
According to the company, after completing almost 3,000 cycles since the installation of the equipment in Q2 2023, the Koch equipment has exceeded lithium extraction levels and the rejection of impurities. Koch is currently working on the commercial design of a DLE installation which should be completed in January.
Disclosure: The author has a long position in Century Lithium. Century Lithium is a sponsor of the website. Please read the disclaimer.
