First production achieved at Kathleen Valley

The first spodumene concentrate has been produced at Liontown Resources’ (ASX: LTR) Kathleen Valley lithium project in WA.

Following progressive commissioning of the process plant, ore has been processed through the entire crushing, milling and flotation circuit, culminating in first concentrate produced.

Liontown will now focus on completing the remaining commissioning activities in the non-critical path areas of the plant and finishing construction of critical underground infrastructure.

Full nameplate production of 3mtpa is expected by the end of Q1 2025 with lithium recoveries expected to be optimised over the next 12 to 18 months.

Liontown managing director and chief executive Tony Ottaviano commented on the milestone.

“Two and a half years ago, we set ourselves the ambitious goal of achieving first production by mid-2024. Today, we have achieved it,” he said.

“This is a monumental moment for Liontown and marks our transition from a construction project to a producer of high-quality lithium concentrate.

“First production signals the start of our ramp-up towards 3mtpa capacity and, in partnership with our tier-1 offtake customers, paves the way for us to pursue our long-term strategy to be a globally significant supplier of battery minerals as the world transitions to a low-carbon future.

“To have successfully constructed and commissioned a world-class lithium operation in two and a half years is a testament to the resilience and dedication of our entire team.”