Sigma Lithium Corporation’s (NASDAQ: SGML) (BVMF: S2GM34) (TSXV: SGML) Greentech Plant in Brazil broke daily peak production records with 890 tonnes, which is the equivalent of 320,000 tonnes of “green” lithium with a battery grade of 5.5 per cent of lithium oxide.
The company announced on Tuesday that its daily production numbers show it’s on track for its yearly 2023 production guidance of 130,000 tonnes.
Sigma Lithium has achieved full production capacity at its Greentech Plant, producing 270,000 tonnes of lithium per year as per its design nameplate capacity.
The plant has also exceeded its design utilization rate of 85 per cent, consistently operating at 88 per cent. This achievement is complemented by a planned evolution in throughput, progressing from 75 per cent capacity at the end of July 2023 to a full 100 per cent design capacity as of Sept 30, 2023.
The DMS cyclones within the plant have been operating at a consistent rate of 200 tonnes per hour, nearing their maximum capacity of 230 tonnes per hour.
The plant’s global recoveries have closely matched the design expectations. Additionally, the company has made deliberate adjustments to lower the concentrate grade from the initial 5.9 per cent Li2O lithium concentrate level.
Sigma Lithium’s Greentech Plant is the first lithium plant to produce chemical-grade lithium concentrate without relying on a tailings dam and achieving a remarkable 100 per cent water reuse in its processing. This groundbreaking approach not only demonstrates technological innovation but also significantly reduces environmental risks.
By adopting 100 per cent dry-stacked tailings and avoiding the use of hazardous chemical products in the lithium processing, the company is taking substantial steps to minimize the potential for water and soil contamination. This responsible approach aligns with Sigma Lithium’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The company’s active contribution also extends to preserving local water sources and biodiversity. Sigma Lithium is dedicated to safeguarding the ecosystems of creeks and the vegetation in the region.
In addition to its pioneering environmental efforts, Sigma Lithium demonstrates a high level of adherence to reserve reconciliation. The actual ore grade and volumes mined closely adhere to the long-term geological and mining models, as outlined in the company’s technical report.
Read more: American Battery Technology gets government contract for low cost battery materials
South America is a significant hub for lithium production
South America has gained popularity as a significant hub for lithium production and mining due to its abundant and high-quality lithium resources, particularly in countries like Chile, Argentina and Bolivia.
The “Lithium Triangle,” which encompasses parts of these countries, holds some of the world’s largest lithium reserves. South America’s appeal lies in its geological advantages, with vast salt flats or salars, like the Salar de Atacama and the Uyuni Salt Flat, offering ideal conditions for lithium extraction through evaporation processes.
Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) operates extensive lithium mining and production facilities in South America, primarily in Chile. Their presence in the Lithium Triangle region, known for its vast lithium reserves, positions them as a key player in the South American lithium mining sector. Albemarle plays a crucial role in meeting the rising demand for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.
Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile (SQM) (NYSE: SQM) is another prominent name in South America’s lithium production landscape. This Chilean company is actively involved in lithium mining and production, with a significant focus on the Salar de Atacama, one of the world’s largest lithium-rich salt flats. SQM’s operations contribute substantially to the region’s lithium output, further solidifying South America’s position as a pivotal player in the global lithium market.
Lithium South Development Corporation (TSXV: LIS) (OTCQB: LISMF) (Frankfurt: OGPQ) has started drilling activities at its flagship lithium project located in Argentina’s Salta province. This move comes after the company successfully expanded its lithium brine resources at the site by 175 per cent.
.
Lithium South Corporation is a sponsor of Mugglehead news coverage
