Analysis confirms suitable flake size for lithium-ion batteries

Initial petrographic analysis has indicated graphite from Kingsland Minerals’ (ASX:KNG) Leliyn graphite project is attractive and potentially suitable for use in lithium-ion batteries.

The graphite flakes underwent a micronising process before being further processed into spherical graphite. Flake sizes of less than 150 microns are preferred as larger flakes require greater size reduction which incurs a higher cost.

At this stage, Leliyn looks to have flake sizes that are well favourable for battery anode material.

Samples were collected at seven to eight-metre intervals down the core holes for petrographic analysis. This involves making a thin section of the core, allowing light to pass through the rock.

Polarised light is then used to identify different mineral species based on the different characteristics passing through the slide.

Analysis indicates that Leliyn can be a source of flake graphite with sizes to be variable across the project.

Samples have been submitted for a further four diamond core holes and results will be announced when received. Diamond drilling is continuing so that more samples can be collected.

Kingsland managing director Richard Maddocks commented on the analysis findings.

“This first batch of this section petrography shows the graphite flake size a Leliyn is highly suitable for making battery anode material for lithium batteries. These outstanding initial testwork results are a major milestone in de-risking the project’s pathway to development,” he said.

“Leliyn is rapidly emerging as a globally significant high-grade, massive scale graphite deposit with favourable characteristics located in the tier-one jurisdiction of the Northern Territory.”

Kingsland will now collect representative samples from the diamond drill core and submit these for flotation testwork. These tests will establish the viability of the graphitic schist to produce a graphite concentrate of a quality that is agreeable to further downstream purifying and processing.