Calix and Pilbara Minerals (PLS) will work together on progressing their mid-stream demonstration plant following a $15 million backing by the Western Australian Government.
The mid-stream process, which is exploring the production of lithium phosphate using Calix’s patented electric calcination process, was temporarily paused in October 2024 following changing lithium market conditions but will now resume at PLS’ Pilgangoora operation in the Pilbara.
Construction completion and commissioning commencement is aimed for the December 2025 quarter. The project remains on budget and was 74 per cent complete at the end of December 2024.
Image: Calix
“I am delighted to announcement the recommencement of the mid-stream project with our JV (joint venture) partner, PLS, following the execution of a $15 million grant from the Western Australian Government,” Calix chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director Phil Hodgson said.
“We stand ready with PLS to demonstrate the exciting potential of electrification for lower cost and lower carbon lithium processing to the global lithium industry.”
PLS managing director and CEO Dale Henderson said he was pleased to see construction back underway.
“Thanks to the WA Government we are able to complete construction of the Mid-Stream Demonstration project which has the potential to be a game-changer for the hard rock lithium processing industry,” he said.
“This technology could create additional local jobs in Western Australia while producing a higher-value, lithium-enriched product at the mine site. This more concentrated product reduces transport volumes to our customers and ensures more value is captured onshore for Australia.”
The project is expected to create around 80 jobs during construction and 35 jobs during its operational phase.