What's Happening?
Lotus Resources Limited has announced significant advancements in its metallurgical testwork at the Letlhakane Uranium Project in Botswana. The company has developed a new two-stage leaching process that
reduces acid consumption by up to 70% compared to previous methods. This breakthrough is part of a broader effort to create a low-cost, large-scale uranium development. The new process eliminates the need for solvent extraction, simplifying operations and reducing costs. The company is also conducting resource infill drilling to upgrade the current Mineral Resource Estimate and support future mine planning. A comprehensive Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) is scheduled for completion in the second half of 2026.
Why It's Important?
The reduction in acid consumption represents a significant cost-saving measure, enhancing the economic viability of the Letlhakane project. This development is crucial as it positions Lotus Resources to become a major player in the uranium market, especially as the long-term uranium price environment strengthens. The simplified processing flowsheet not only reduces operational costs but also aligns with more conventional uranium recovery methods, potentially making the project more attractive to investors. The advancements at Letlhakane complement Lotus's existing operations at the Kayelekera Uranium Mine in Malawi, further solidifying the company's standing in the global uranium industry.
What's Next?
Lotus Resources is advancing several technical studies and development activities to support the re-engineered flowsheet. These include engineering design and cost estimates for the updated plant configuration, process modeling of column leach results, and evaluation of the optimal mining method. The ongoing drilling campaign aims to upgrade the confidence in the Mineral Resource Estimate, which will contribute to a more robust economic case for the project. The upcoming Pre-Feasibility Study will incorporate updated metallurgical, resource, and economic data, providing a clearer picture of the project's potential.
