Lifezone Metals has announced a significant milestone in the development of the Kabanga Nickel Project in north-west Tanzania. The company successfully produced nickel, copper, and cobalt cathode samples via semi-continuous pilot scale refinery test work at its Simulus Laboratory in Perth, Australia. These metals were derived from flotation concentrate processed from borehole core samples taken at the Kabanga Nickel Project.
The achievement marks the first-ever production of refined metals from Kabanga mineralization since the deposit’s discovery in 1975 by the United Nations Development Program.
Chris Showalter, CEO of Lifezone Metals, stated, “Achieving the first-ever production of refined nickel, copper, and cobalt cathode from the Kabanga Nickel Project marks a historic milestone for the project and for Lifezone. This accomplishment, resulting from extensive test work at our in-house laboratory, reflects our commitment to innovation and bringing this world-class resource to market. It lays a strong foundation for the future of Kabanga and the Kahama Refinery to ensure high-quality, sustainable metals production in Tanzania.”
Dr. Mike Adams, Chief Technology Officer, added, “The production of nickel, copper, and cobalt cathode samples from the Kabanga Nickel Project is a groundbreaking achievement by our team at Simulus Laboratory. This success highlights the effectiveness of our hydrometallurgical techniques and our commitment to sustainable metal production. The pilot plant’s performance has been exemplary, closely matching our process simulation models, and we are optimistic about the positive impact this will have on the Kabanga Nickel Project and the future operations at the Kahama Refinery.”
Extensive batch, locked-cycle, and semi-continuous pilot plant test work for processing Kabanga flotation concentrate into refined metals have confirmed design criteria for the Kahama refinery. The pilot plant’s performance has been consistent with process simulation models, showing high leach extractions. Data analysis, mass balancing, and Quality Assurance/Quality Control activities are ongoing, with full product assays pending.
Simulus, a leading hydrometallurgical laboratory and engineering design group, has played a crucial role in this achievement. By integrating Simulus’ expertise and assets into Lifezone in 2023, the company has shortened testing times, maintained IP confidentiality, and better controlled costs. 
