
Pilot tests at the Rincon project concentrated brine 4-6x, with up to 83% water recovery. The results support the DFS for the 12ktpa lithium operation.
Argosy Minerals (ASX:AGY) reported positive results from evaporation and concentration tests at its Rincon lithium project in Argentina. The tests are part of the definitive feasibility study for a 12,000 tonne per annum operation.
The company ran pilot-scale mechanical evaporation tests using proprietary technology from an independent European provider. The process concentrated post-solvent extraction brine from about 1.3% lithium to a range of 4% to 5% lithium, reducing solution volumes and potentially improving downstream recovery.
Managing Director Jerko Zuvela said the results support the engineering and feasibility program needed to complete the DFS. “We are pleased to continue achieving successful testwork results,” he said. The tests confirmed stable performance under operating conditions relevant for commercial application.
Zuvela added that the work reduces process risk and strengthens the DFS. “The results strengthen the DFS by reducing process risk, improving understanding of brine behaviour and supports evaluation of mechanical evaporation as a potential concentration solution downstream of SX unit operations.”
The tests also showed that 75% to 83% of feed volume can be recovered as condensate water, with lithium content retained in a much smaller solution volume. The company said each major unit operation in the flowsheet must be validated through laboratory or pilot-scale testing as part of the DFS.
Argosy shares opened at 4.1 cents, valuing the company at $63.28 million.
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