Successful Lithium Spodumene Concentrate Production
Andrada Mining, a technology metals mining company based in Namibia, has announced the successful production of high-grade lithium spodumene concentrate at its Lithium Ridge license area (ML133). The laboratory-scale flotation process yielded a concentrate with a grade of 6.8% Li2O, comprising 75% spodumene, from two exploration samples.
Exploration Highlights
– The production involved two composite samples from distinct pegmatite bodies, achieving a lithium recovery rate of 76% (80% spodumene recovery).
– Samples were sourced from drill hole chips, revealing lithium mineralization along a 6km strike at Lithium Ridge.
– The flotation tests resulted in a weighted average concentrate grade of 6.8% Li2O, indicative of battery-grade quality.
CEO’s Perspective on the Results
Anthony Viljoen, CEO of Andrada, commented on the significance of these results. He noted that the findings confirm the presence of recoverable spodumene in Lithium Ridge’s pegmatites. Viljoen also underscored the company’s strategic objective to develop a substantial lithium production base, highlighted by promising drilling outcomes and the prospect of a maiden mineral resource estimate.
Ongoing Metallurgical Test Work and Exploration
Geolabs Global conducted the test work to evaluate the lithium mineral composition and its recovery potential. The weighted average feed grade was found to be 1.69% Li2O and 15.2% spodumene. Andrada is planning additional exploration drilling, metallurgical testing, and mineralogical characterization in the area to improve geological and metallurgical understanding.
Lithium Ridge Project Overview
Located near the town of Uis, Lithium Ridge is a fully permitted mining license area with a rich history of exploration. Andrada’s future plans include extensive exploration and drilling programs set for early 2024. These efforts aim to establish a mineral resource estimate and lay the groundwork for feasibility studies for a potential mining and processing operation at Lithium Ridge. 
