Electric Metals (USA) Limited (TSXV: EML | OTCQB: EMUSF) has released the successful results of metallurgical testing on its flagship Emily manganese deposit, located in Minnesota, United States. Kemetco Research Inc. conducted the testing programme, successfully demonstrating the capability of producing high-purity manganese sulphate monohydrate (HPMSM) from manganese samples recovered from the 2023 drill programme at the Emily manganese deposit. These results represent a key development milestone in the ongoing evaluation and advancement of the Emily manganese project, the highest-grade manganese deposit in North America.
Brian Savage, CEO, commented: “Our team was optimistic about achieving these positive results, and now receiving validation from a third party strengthens our confidence in the project and provides reassurance to all stakeholders.”
Highlights of Metallurgical Test Work
- High-purity Manganese Sulphate Monohydrate (HPMSM) Production: The program confirmed the potential for producing HPMSM aimed for the lithium-ion battery market from composite samples sourced from the Emily manganese deposit.
- Manganese Extraction: Leaching tests using sulphuric acid (H2SO4) in combination with a reducing agent, the optimization of sulphur dioxide (SO2) ratios and finer grinding improved recovery rates, achieving manganese extraction rates exceeding 95%.
- Impurity Removal and Crystallization: The test work demonstrated the effective removal of impurities, including iron, potassium, and other trace elements, through multiple purification stages. Crystallization tests yielded HPMSM aimed for the battery-materials market. The HPMSM met international specification standards used by Chinese producers (Fastmarkets 2022).
- Potential for Optimization and Scale-Up: The results from this test work provide a strong foundation for the future development of a full-scale processing plant. The next phase will focus on flowsheet development and further process optimization to advance towards a Scoping Study / Preliminary Economic Assessment and Pre-Feasibility Study.
The current metallurgical test programme, along with earlier metallurgical tests conducted by Kemetco, confirmed the potential for producing a full suite of manganese products, including high-purity manganese sulphate Monohydrate (HPMSM), electrolytic manganese metal (EMM), electrolytic manganese dioxide (EMD / MnO2), and other high-purity manganese chemicals from Emily feedstocks.
“The high manganese recovery rates and the quality of the manganese sulphate produced demonstrate the immense potential of the Emily Project to become a domestic supplier of high-purity manganese sulphate for the clean energy transition and a more sustainable energy future. This accomplishment opens the door for future project expansions, such as scaling up and conducting thorough economic evaluations.” Added Brian.
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