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Marimaca Appoints Stantec To Progress Pea For The Integration Of The Pampa Medina Project
Global Mining Review
Marimaca Appoints Stantec To Progress Pea For The Integration Of The Pampa Medina ProjectThe study will be completed by Stantec and the Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) by Caracle Creek Chile SpA. Pampa Medina includes the recently acquired Pampa Medina Main and Madrugador copper deposits, which have historical non-NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimates. The mineralisation at the projects consists of shallow, relatively high-grade, high acid solubility, copper oxides, and leachable sulphides. Marimaca is currently preparing an updated MRE for Pampa Medina and has commenced sample selection for an initial metallurgical test work program, comprising 1 m columns and bottle roll tests. Marimaca has completed a comprehensive review of the technical data for the project, including re-logging of core, validation of the assay database for approximately 41 000 m of drilling, analytical acid consumption data, and partial sequential copper analysis to give indications of potential metallurgical recoveries. Based on these reviews, Marimaca is confident to progress to the next stage of technical review and study. The PEA will examine the feasibility of opencast mining, crushing and leaching the material mined onsite at Pampa Medina before piping pregnant leach solution (PLS) to a centralized SX-EW facility in the proposed MOD development, with an additional return pipeline for raffinate solution. The MOD DFS is being prepared with potential future expansion in mind, which will impact key infrastructure including water supply and storage infrastructure, power, site layout, acid management and storage, and civil and earthworks. Hayden Locke, President & CEO, commented: “We believe Pampa Medina offers us a fantastic opportunity to increase the future scale of production from the capacity being considered in the MOD DFS. Madrugador is too small to contemplate a standalone development, and while Pampa Medina Main has the required scale for a small standalone development, we believe developing these assets synergistically, utilising the planned infrastructure of the MOD, can capture significant capital cost benefits. "We also see the development of leaching infrastructure in the Pampa Medina Area as allowing us to unlock the significantly lower-grade oxide opportunities that exist in the area.” Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/14022025/marimaca-appoints-stantec-to-progress-pea-for-the-integration-of-the-pampa-medina-project/
mining
Feb 14, 2025
First Spodumene Concentrate Produced At Bougouni
Global Mining Review
First Spodumene Concentrate Produced At BougouniFirst production of spodumene concentrate was achieved during the commissioning phase of the full Stage 1 Dense Media Separation (DMS) processing plant, with the introduction of pegmatite ore into the processing circuit. The DMS processing plant performance has achieved target on this initial run with assay of spodumene concentrate at 5.53% Li2O produced, in line with the planned production profile. This initial spodumene concentrate production was achieved ahead of schedule and paves the way for the ramp up of the DMS processing plant to nameplate capacity in the coming weeks. Highlights: Bernard Aylward, CEO of Kodal Minerals, remarked: “The first production of spodumene concentrate at Bougouni marks a major milestone for Kodal and I would like to thank our entire team for this achievement, which wholly reflects the dedication and effort of all those involved. We are confident that this progress will continue into the commercial production phase, and our project team will continue to work towards our 10 000 t per month target at Bougouni. “The operational focus over the coming weeks will be the finalisation of commissioning and stress testing of the DMS processing plant as we ramp up to achieve nameplate capacity and steady state production. We look forward to confirming our first shipment of lithium spodumene concentrate to Hainan in China by the end of this quarter.” Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/14022025/first-spodumene-concentrate-produced-at-bougouni/ Komatsu has announced the all-new WA700 wheel loader, engineered with over a century of quarry and mining expertise.
mining
Feb 14, 2025
Komatsu Europe Introduces New Wa700-8 Wheel Loader
Global Mining Review
Komatsu Europe Introduces New Wa700-8 Wheel LoaderBefore commencing development, Komatsu’s engineers actively collected customer input, identifying that safety, cost per tonne produced, CO2 emission, maximising uptime, and operator well-being were the key concerns. These insights were integral to the development process, resulting in a powerful machine equipped with advanced features and technologies, including unrivalled power and stability, substantial load capacity and bucket volume, and extreme durability. Jo Monsieur, Deputy General Manager Product Marketing from Komatsu Europe, says: “I'm very excited to introduce our WA700-8 in Europe, which offers a perfect match with our 60-tonne rigid dump truck. Without any doubt, it will excite any operator with its performance, large cabin and wealth of safety features. After more than a decade of development, this reinvented giant is now fully ready to claim its place in quarries across Europe and beyond.” Powerful performance Equipped with a robust 578 kW Komatsu engine, the WA700-8 delivers the power needed for optimal efficiency in demanding quarry and mining applications. The combination of increased engine power and torque, a new efficient cooling system, and reduced hydraulic losses results in fast cycle times and exceptional fuel efficiency. To enhance productivity and operator comfort during V-shape loading, the WA700-8 features a convenient throttle lock/rpm set function. Reduced emissions The WA700-8 is designed with environmental sustainability in mind. Full compliance with EU Stage V emissions regulations guarantees its eligibility for any tender. Furthermore, the machine can be filled with B20 biodiesels and is 100% compatible with paraffinic fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), significantly reducing CO2 emissions. Uncompromised safety and operator comfort Safety is top priority in the design of the WA700-8. An unrivalled safety package comes as standard, including emergency push buttons, certified anchorage and tie-down points, and battery, starter, and hydraulic lockouts. The machine also comes standard with full LED lamps, ensuring excellent visibility and safety during night operations. Automation features, including an automatic digging system, semi-automatic approach, and semi-auto dump systems, simplify repetitive tasks, helping operators optimise load cycles while avoiding fatigue. These systems are particularly beneficial for less experienced operators, helping to close skills gaps and enhance overall operational efficiency. Absolute peace of mind The WA700-8 is designed for easy maintenance and serviceability. It features maintenance-free batteries for reduced downtime. A centralised service centre, with sampling and quick fill ports, ensures easy and accurate handling of fluids. Komatsu provides comprehensive support for the WA700-8, including Komtrax Step 5 and Komtrax Plus for ultimate asset management solutions. Furthermore, the Komatsu Care program and complimentary extended full warranty offer customers complete peace of mind. Harness the power of data for ultimate total cost of ownership (TCO) performance The integration with Smart Quarry Site empowers site managers with production visualisations and real-time insights into machine movement, usage, and output. This overview allows for improved quarry management as well as optimised fleet productivity and efficiency. Furthermore, the pre-start inspection feature facilitates proactive identification and reporting of potential equipment issues, while real-time feedback displayed on the in-cab screen further enhances operational efficiency and on-site safety. This all-new wheel loader perfectly complements the existing range of large wheel loaders, and incorporates their key attributes to boost customer value through performance, safety initiatives, operator comfort, efficiency, and digital technology. Get an exclusive look at bauma 2025, where Komatsu will be showcasing the WA700-8 in a live demo outside Hall C6.
mining
Feb 14, 2025
Taseko Releases Economic Impact Study For Gibraltar Copper Mine
Global Mining Review
Taseko Releases Economic Impact Study For Gibraltar Copper MineThe study examines Gibraltar’s significant contribution to the economies of the Cariboo Region, BC, and Canada since Taseko restarted the opencast copper mining operation in late 2004. In addition, the study forecasts Gibraltar’s economic impacts for the next 20 years, through its current remaining reserve life to 2044. Prepared by MNP, a leading Canadian accounting and consulting firm, the study employs an input-output model with multipliers published by Statistics Canada to quantify Gibraltar’s direct, indirect, and induced economic effects for the periods 2005 – 2023 and 2024 – 2044. Study highlights include: An economic driver: Since 2004, Gibraltar has generated total economic output in Canada of CAN$16.3 billion and value-added GDP of CAN$8.3 billion. More than half of this economic activity occurred in BC’s Cariboo region (CAN$10.1 billion and CAN$5 billion respectively). When combined with the next 20 years of operations, Gibraltar’s cumulative projected economic impact in Canada through 2044 is forecast to be CAN$41.9 billion in output and CAN$21.2 billion in value-added GDP, including CAN$26.7 billion and CAN$13.1 billion respectively in the Cariboo region. Cornerstone of regional employment: Currently, the Gibraltar mine employs approximately 700 workers and supports a total of 2860 full-time jobs (including indirect and induced employment). Over the past 20 years, BC’s Cariboo region has benefitted most from Gibraltar-supported jobs, hosting almost all of the direct jobs, and about half of total employment. Mining jobs in Canada are well paid; the Mining Association of BC estimates an annual average salary for BC mine workers of nearly CAN$139,000. Gibraltar employees represent about 2.7% of total employment in the Cariboo region, but 15.5% of the region’s employment income. Since 2005, economic activity from Gibraltar has generated cumulative employment income of more than CAN$4 billion. Revenues for governments: Since 2004, Gibraltar has been an important direct contributor and catalyst for government revenues at the local, provincial, and national levels, supporting vital programmes and services that benefit all Canadians. Total government revenues generated by the mine for all three levels of government were CAN$2 billion for the period 2005 – 2023. Over the coming 20 years, Gibraltar is forecast to generate an additional CAN$3.1 billion in taxes in Canada, for a cumulative total of more than CAN$5 billion. Critical minerals production in Canada: Gibraltar is the second-largest opencast copper mine in Canada, with average annual life-of-mine production of 129 million lb of copper. Copper is a key element in a wide range of energy technologies and is designated as a Critical Mineral by the governments of BC, Canada, and the United States. Since Taseko re-started operations at Gibraltar in 2004, the mine has produced 1.9 billion lb of copper in concentrate, and is forecast to produce an additional 2.7 billion lb through 2044. The cumulative total of 4.6 billion lb of copper forecast to be produced at Gibraltar from 2004 – 2044 is equivalent to the copper required to manufacture approximately 25 million electric vehicles (EV). Stuart McDonald, Taseko’s President & CEO, commented: “The Gibraltar Mine has been a cornerstone of economic growth, prosperity, and community development in the Cariboo for more than two decades, and will continue to provide career opportunities and family-supporting employment for years to come. We are very proud of the economic contributions our business activities support in the Cariboo region and throughout British Columbia. “Our North American copper business is poised for significant near-term growth. In late 2025, we expect to complete construction and initiate production at the Florence Copper project in Arizona, and our Yellowhead copper project in south-central BC represents another major mine development opportunity. We look forward to building on the tremendous economic legacy that Gibraltar has established over the past 20 years.” Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/14022025/taseko-releases-economic-impact-study-for-gibraltar-copper-mine/ Komatsu has announced the all-new WA700 wheel loader, engineered with over a century of quarry and mining expertise.
mining
Feb 14, 2025
Akobo Minerals Reports On Gold Production And New Vertical Mine Shaft
Global Mining Review
Akobo Minerals Reports On Gold Production And New Vertical Mine ShaftGold production: Slightly more than two kg of doré gold bar was produced in January, bringing total gold production to 17 kg to date. This was in line with expectations, as tunnel operations were temporarily halted from mid-December 2024 to mid-January 2025 for essential safety improvements. Both tunnels are now fully operational. Increased production ahead: Stoping (mining the ore body) has commenced from the Western Winze, while the Eastern Winze is nearing completion for its prospect drive to start at the new 575 level. Going forward, mainly ore will be mined, marking a shift toward more stable production. It is important to highlight that underground mining in a deposit like Segele, which exhibits a strong nugget effect, naturally results in month-to-month production variations. While short-term fluctuations can occur, long-term production expectations remain unchanged. All-time high gold price: The recent record gold price is expected to positively impact future cash flow from the Segele mine. Due to the compact and highly concentrated nature of the orebody, Akobo Minerals has decided to establish a vertical shaft to improve access and increase underground hoisting capacity. This infrastructure upgrade will significantly accelerate production, aligning it more closely with the processing plant’s capacity. Additionally, the vertical shaft will enable activation of the Carbon-in-Leach (CIL) circuit, increasing gold recovery rates from approximately 60% to 93%. Key features of the vertical shaft Phase 1: Initial shaft depth of 60 m, with infrastructure capable of extending to 120 m. Timeline: Expected completion within 12 to 16 weeks from commencement. Design: Approximately three meters in diameter, accommodating cages, ventilation, water pumping, and electrical infrastructure. Hoisting system: Double-cage arrangement for personnel and ore transport. Hoisting capacity of approximately three t per hoist, with a total capacity of up to 100 tpd, depending on underground ore availability. Electrically powered winder, backed by a dedicated diesel generator, with redundancy from the process plant’s power system. Manufacturing and installation: Headgear, control, and winch rooms will be manufactured in South Africa and shipped to Segele for assembly and commissioning. The transition to a vertical shaft represents a shift aimed at improving long-term production efficiency. Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/13022025/akobo-minerals-reports-on-gold-production-and-new-vertical-mine-shaft/
mining
Feb 13, 2025
How Iot Technology Can Help Prevent Disruptions, Accidents, And Injuries
Global Mining Review
How Iot Technology Can Help Prevent Disruptions, Accidents, And InjuriesThe mining industry is no stranger to adversity. Many of the challenges it faces today were the same decades ago. Worker safety, for example, is always a top priority for mining companies who are constantly driving to thwart preventable accidents and injuries. Likewise, mining companies continually strive to reduce downtime and the costs associated with such delays. Minimising downtime and protecting workers with the Internet of Things Use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology is on a rapid rise in the mining industry today as a key strategy to help prevent operational disruptions. To avoid equipment downtime, IoT-powered predictive maintenance solutions monitor machine variables like vibration, temperature, and moisture, noting any variance in expected parameters and notifying operators as needed, so they have ample time to act. IoT sensors and devices enable machine-to-machine communication and deliver critical data and insights to human operators, so they can address anomalies and thwart system failures. Whereas in the past, personnel were typically only able to react to issues once they occurred, IoT-enabled predictive maintenance enables them to proactively replace a machine or part before it causes downtime. This digital transformation can result in massive cost savings and greater uptime for mining operations. In addition to reducing equipment incidents, IoT solutions can also help avert accidents and injuries to personnel. For example, equipping a mining worker with a smart helmet (a hard hat with a built-in IoT module and sensors) allows mining companies to track that worker’s location and status. These smart helmets can alert personnel, whether notifying a reversing truck driver that someone is behind them, or notifying a worker about the presence of harmful or dangerous gases. Challenges That impede the effectiveness of IoT deployments Despite the versatility and value of IoT solutions in mining environments, connected technology can encounter challenges that impede optimal functionality. For instance, underground mining operations can have expansive tunnel systems several stories below ground that block signals. Similarly, mining sites are not always near a metropolitan area, but can be in a remote location far from communication infrastructure like cell towers. Mining companies must consider which type of connectivity they need to ensure their IoT-enabled devices and equipment remain operational. One solution is to use cellular infrastructure, segmented to have a business-focused priority network and an Internet and connectivity solution for workers who need to communicate with their families or stream entertainment. A private network is another excellent solution, supporting enhanced quality of service and security, and giving the mining operation more control, since the company owns the infrastructure. It is also useful to build a mesh network around the mine, where every node is a backup repeater. Having multiple routes for data, whether Wi-Fi and cellular, or a Zigbee mesh and Bluetooth, ensures that IoT devices and sensors can continue to send data to the data centre or gateway, even if one option goes down.
mining
Feb 13, 2025
Gold Fields Awards Wind Turbine Contract
Global Mining Review
Gold Fields Awards Wind Turbine ContractThe turbines will form a 42 MW wind farm as part of Gold Fields’ landmark AUS$296 million St Ives Renewable Energy project, which will become Western Australia’s largest renewable energy initiative at an existing mine site. The project also includes a 35 MW solar farm, which is currently in construction in partnership with Pacific Energy and should be completed in 1H26. The entire renewable system is expected to power 73% of the St Ives site and will reduce the mine’s carbon emissions by about 50% by 2030. Gold Fields Principal Specialist and Project Director, Simon Schmid, said the St Ives project was part of Gold Fields’ expanding decarbonisation initiatives at its 10 sites and projects across Australia, South Africa, Ghana, Canada, and South America. “We’re already benefitting from significant renewable energy generation across our Australian operations, including 18 MW at Gruyere, 10 MW at Granny Smith, and 35 MW at Agnew. We are excited to see the project’s contribution to our broader global decarbonisation strategy, which contains a target of 30% net emission reduction by 2030, reinforcing our long-term and growing commitment to sustainability,” explained Mr Schmid. Turbine manufacture is already underway, with the assets expected to arrive in Western Australia in August 2025 before being transported to site, and construction starting the following month. As part of the St Ives renewables program, Gold Fields has partnered with leading creative consultancy, FORM Building a State of Creativity, to work with local school students and up-and-coming artists to create a series of artworks that will feature on the turbines. “This program fosters collaboration, creativity, and connection, and celebrates community by encouraging young artists to share their interpretations of wind as an energy source and what it means to their communities,” Mr Schmid said. “Their artwork will be showcased across a lot of different applications including on the turbines themselves, 130 m high once constructed.” “Goldwind is pleased to deliver the wind farm component of the St Ives Mine project, the second renewable energy microgrid project in partnership with Gold Fields,” he said. “Building on our experience in delivering renewable energy solutions for mining operations in Western Australia, this project further demonstrates how sustainable energy can be integrated into industrial sites to reduce emissions and support a cleaner energy future.” Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/13022025/gold-fields-awards-wind-turbine-contract/ Joe Mladek, Regional Sales Manager, Digi International, describes the benefits and necessity of IoT technology in mining operations.
mining
Feb 13, 2025
Vale And Caterpillar Strengthen Collaboration To Focus On Productivity, Innovation, And Decarbonisation
Global Mining Review
Vale And Caterpillar Strengthen Collaboration To Focus On Productivity, Innovation, And DecarbonisationThe companies also reaffirmed their commitment made in April 2024 to cooperate towards development of a dual-fuel haul truck, powered by diesel and ethanol. Vale also intends to test a battery electric haul truck and the Cat© Dynamic Energy Transfer System (DET) under development by Caterpillar. Marco Braga, Vale's Procurement Director, says: “The framework agreement represents an evolution in our relationship with Caterpillar, amplifying our focus on maximising the performance of Vale's assets and allowing us to advance on our decarbonisation path in an economically responsible way. Denise Johnson, Group President of Caterpillar's Resource Industries segment, says: “The agreement with Vale reflects our commitment to developing solutions that support our customers' operational and sustainability gold.” On average, diesel fuel use in Vale's operations is responsible for 15% of the company's direct CO2e emissions. The adoption of more sustainable technologies is part of a strategic plan to mitigate environmental impacts while maintaining competitiveness. The dual-fuel haul truck, to be powered by ethanol and diesel, that is under development by Caterpillar would initially equip trucks capable of carrying 240 t of ore. In the future, the technology may be extended to trucks with a capacity of 320 t. In total, there are more than 150 models of both in operation at Vale. Initial testing is to be completed at Caterpillar’s facilities in the United States, followed by additional validation and testing of dual-fuel trucks at Vale's operations. João Turchetti, Vale's Decarbonisation Engineering director, explains: “Decarbonisation is a major challenge which will only be overcome by investing in solutions such as alternative fuels and electrification to reduce emissions without compromising efficiency and safety.” Marc Cameron, Senior Vice President of Resource Industries Sales, Services, & Technology at Caterpillar, says:
mining
Feb 12, 2025
Cummins Acquires First Mode Assets For Decarbonisation Leadership In Mining
Global Mining Review
Cummins Acquires First Mode Assets For Decarbonisation Leadership In MiningThe acquisition includes hybrid mining and rail product lines, and the full IP portfolio which includes hydrogen and battery powertrain solutions. This technology represents the first commercially available retrofit hybrid system for mining equipment, significantly reducing total cost of ownership (TCO) while advancing decarbonisation in operations. In addition, Cummins is acquiring First Mode’s commercial portfolio, manufacturing, and technical teams in Australia, the United States, and Chile. First Mode will continue to serve customers through the transition and is dedicated to meeting customers’ needs by shipping product in 1Q25. This acquisition reinforces Cummins’ commitment to providing innovative and effective decarbonisation solutions and will allow the company to elevate our product portfolio while meeting the needs of our customers on their transition to a lower-carbon future. First Mode will operate within the power systems industrial segment. Jenny Bush, President of power systems at Cummins, said: “This acquisition is an important step forward in our goal to lead our power systems customers through the energy transition. With First Mode’s hybrid retrofit technology, we are accelerating our ability to provide decarbonisation solutions that meet miners’ need to drive down operating costs.” A broader commitment to carbon reduction Cummins is at the forefront of developing multiple technology pathways to help the mining industry transition to a sustainable future. Through product hybridisation and clean fuels such as ethanol and methanol, Cummins is developing bridge technologies that enable miners to maximise the life of existing fleets while reducing carbon emissions. “Cummins’ dedication to partnering with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and miners ensures that these technologies are developed and tested in real-world environments,” Bush added. “With hybrid retrofit kits, modular component upgrades, and scalable solutions, we are bringing miners the flexibility and confidence they need to decarbonise operations while adapting to evolving technologies and infrastructure.” With its vast global service network, Cummins is prepared to support newly developed bridge technologies, ensuring seamless integration and ongoing support for mining and rail applications. Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/12022025/cummins-acquires-first-mode-assets-for-decarbonisation-leadership-in-mining/ Karolos Seeger (Partner), Konstantin Bureiko (Counsel), and Anastasia Magid (Associate), Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, discuss the impact of sanctions on the global mining industry. Embed article link: (copy the HTML code below):
mining
Feb 12, 2025
The Effect Of Sanctions On The Global Mining Industry
Global Mining Review
The Effect Of Sanctions On The Global Mining IndustryWestern sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus in response to the war in Ukraine have targeted Russia’s extractive and mining industry in an unprecedented way, with a mix of restrictions on Russian origin metals and other commodities, and an expansion of export restrictions to cover most mining equipment. Any global company – even with no operations in Russia and no direct transactions with Russian counterparties – is likely to find itself affected by these extensive measures. Western allies have developed unique sanctions concepts to cut off Russia’s and Belarus’ mining sectors from equipment and expertise, foreign financing, and global commodities markets. These restrictions can broadly be summarised in four categories: Even those not directly involved in mining business with Russia have experienced the indirect effect of Western sanctions measures. An EU led drive to require EU exporters to agree “no re-export to Russia,” contractual commitments with counterparties has meant that international mining businesses throughout the world are facing new restrictions on certain types of equipment purchased from EU suppliers, even where the buyer is not technically required to comply with EU sanctions. Western mining industry participants are also facing a surge in attempted sanctions circumvention and evasion schemes, with Russian mining groups going to great lengths to gain access to spare parts, replacements, and technical support for legacy Western equipment. This has, in turn, increased the compliance burden on anyone attempting to buy equipment from such manufacturers, and requires international buyers to, in some cases, prove the good-faith nature of their purchases. The weight of Western sanctions compliance obligations has also meant that some international groups have decided to comply voluntarily with some Western restrictions on Russia’s mining industry to ease access to Western markets. Finally, the range of import restrictions implemented against Russian origin metals and other raw materials has also had a significant impact on commodities markets and the compliance burden on any companies processing raw materials. EU and UK end users and importers now even carry a burden of tracing the origin of certain processed mining products, as trade sanctions prohibit acquiring items manufactured in third countries from Russian or Belarusian iron, steel, gold, and diamonds, regardless of their share in the final product. The traceability rules are complex, and for processed Russian diamonds, they have remained uncertain for over a year. While sanctions compliance has, in the past, been viewed as primarily a concern for financial institutions, the above developments have meant that companies operating in the mining industry sector must ensure that they have implemented sufficiently mature sanctions systems and controls, and are vigilant for potential trade and financial sanctions risks. Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/12022025/the-effect-of-sanctions-on-the-global-mining-industry/
mining
Feb 12, 2025
Rio2 Announces Official Start Of Construction Of Fenix Gold Mine
Global Mining Review
Rio2 Announces Official Start Of Construction Of Fenix Gold MineThe Fenix Gold Project is one of the largest undeveloped gold oxide, heap leach projects in the Americas, hosting a measured and indicated mineral resource of 4.8 million ounces of gold which the Rio2 believes will make a positive contribution to the Atacama Region and Chile. The project is an example of modern gold mining where a full complement of technical, environmental, and social considerations has been consulted and designed from the outset. The project represents a significant investment in the gold mining business in Chile by a junior mining company of approximately US$235 million of initial and sustaining capital, generating employment for at least 1200 people during the construction phase, and 550 people during the 17-year operations phase. The mine being contemplated will be a run-of-mine heap leach operation; no crushing or tailings storage facilities are required, thereby minimising the overall impact and footprint of the project. Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/11022025/rio2-announces-official-start-of-construction-of-fenix-gold-mine/ Weardale Lithium has secured a unanimous resolution to grant planning permission from Durham County Council to build the UK's largest lithium extraction facility.
mining
Feb 11, 2025
Planning Permission Granted For Uk'S Largest Lithium Extraction Facility
Global Mining Review
Planning Permission Granted For Uk'S Largest Lithium Extraction FacilityLocated in Eastgate in Weardale, County Durham, the facility will produce battery-grade lithium carbonate from geothermal groundwaters, with plans to scale to a commercial production target of minimum 10 000 t/yr in the coming years. Situated on the site of the former cement works at Eastgate, which was demolished over 20 years ago, the plant is a significant regeneration and redevelopment scheme. Utilising this brownfield site, the existing infrastructure and connectivity is well suited to bring the site back into sustainable use. As a result of the successful planning application, Weardale Lithium are proceeding with the development of a market leading, continuous flow, lithium extraction demonstration plant. It will operate an end-to-end, integrated direct lithium extraction (DLE) and carbonisation process to produce battery grade lithium carbonate on-site. The demonstration facility is the UK's largest permitted lithium brine extraction plant and the only one currently approved to produce battery grade lithium carbonate on-site. Continuous flow trials are a key differentiator as they enable abstraction well performance and reservoir measurement, DLE performance optimisation, and the ability to provide multiple, large battery-grade lithium carbonate samples for customer and offtake specification and validation. The approved plans represent a multi-million-pound investment in the local and regional economy. Initially, the development will create between 20 and 50 jobs on site, along with additional employment within the local construction sector and supply chains. During the commercial phase, the company estimates it will create approximately 125 highly skilled jobs and generate approximately £1 billion gross value added (GVA) for the North East region. The successful planning application for the demonstration plant follows more than three years of multi-disciplinary workstreams, including extensive testing of different DLE technology types to find the optimal way to extract lithium from the geothermal groundwaters beneath the North Pennine Orefield. DLE is a low-impact, low-carbon, and low-water usage method of extracting lithium, and will be done so using renewable energy sources where feasible. Geothermal groundwaters, or brines as they can be referred to due to their highly saline nature, will be extracted from an existing deep, high specification, commercial-grade abstraction well located close to the processing site, and transported via pipelines to the demonstration plant. This enables the demonstration plant to operate with continuous flow at significant flow rates. Judicious use of pipes negates the need for local tanker traffic on minor roads, ensures no competing land use, and minimises visual impact and carbon footprint.
mining
Feb 11, 2025