What's Happening?
EV Resources has announced successful flotation test results, achieving an 81.1% recovery rate of antimony from third-party ore. This marks a significant improvement over previous methods, which recovered only 29.25% through gravity concentration alone.
The flotation process, validated by independent metallurgical tests, is set to be implemented at the company's Tecomatlán Processing Plant in Mexico. The new method not only increases recovery rates but also produces a concentrate with a 42.4% antimony grade. The company plans to integrate this flotation upgrade into its operations within 10-12 months, with minimal additional capital expenditure required.
Why It's Important?
The advancement in antimony recovery is crucial amid global supply constraints of the metal, which is vital for various industrial applications, including flame retardants and electronics. By enhancing recovery rates and producing higher-grade concentrates, EV Resources positions itself as a key player in the antimony market. This development could lead to increased production capacity and economic benefits, supporting the company's strategy to establish a regional processing hub. The improved process also aligns with environmental goals, as it reduces waste and optimizes resource use.
What's Next?
EV Resources is moving forward with environmental permitting to support the implementation of the flotation circuit. The permitting process is expected to take approximately seven months and will run concurrently with plant refurbishment activities. The company aims to use the Chinantla ore to cover at least 50% of the plant's capacity, with plans to accommodate various ore types and oxidation states. This strategic move could enhance the company's market position and influence future developments in antimony processing technology.
