First Nickel, Copper and Cobalt from Lifezone Metal’s Kabanga Project
Lifezone Metals Limited has announced the production of nickel, copper, and cobalt cathode samples from the Kabanga Nickel Project, located in north-west Tanzania.
This milestone marks the first time these metals have been produced from the Kabanga mineralization since its discovery in 1975 by the United Nations Development Program.
The production of these metals is the result of extensive pilot scale refinery test work conducted at Lifezone’s in-house Simulus Laboratory in Perth, Australia. The test work involved processing flotation concentrate derived from borehole core samples at the Kabanga Nickel Project.
“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,” said Chris Showalter, CEO of Lifezone Metals. “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.”
The success of the pilot plant test work is a testament to the effectiveness of Lifezone’s hydrometallurgical techniques, according to Dr. Mike Adams, Chief Technology Officer of Lifezone Metals. “The production of nickel, copper, and cobalt cathode samples from the Kabanga Nickel Project is a groundbreaking achievement by our team at Simulus Laboratory,” he said. “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 process simulation models, both internal and vendor supplied. Leach extractions were high and consistent with previously announced figures, with data analysis, mass balancing, and Quality Assurance / Quality Control activities ongoing. Full product assays are currently pending.
The acquisition of Simulus by Lifezone in 2023 has allowed the company to shorten laboratory testing times, avoid regular delays that can occur when using external laboratories, maintain IP confidentiality, and better control costs. Simulus is a globally preeminent hydrometallurgical laboratory, testing, and engineering design group, and their expertise has been instrumental in the success of the Kabanga Nickel Project.
The production of nickel, copper, and cobalt cathode samples from the Kabanga Nickel Project lays a strong foundation for the future of the project and the Kahama Refinery, which is expected to ensure high-quality, sustainable metals production in Tanzania.
“This milestone marks a historic moment for the Kabanga Nickel Project and for Lifezone,” said Chris Showalter. “It lays a strong foundation for the future of Kabanga and the Kahama Refinery to ensure high-quality, sustainable metals production in Tanzania.”
