Avalon produces LiOH, analcime from Metso leaching

Executive Summary

• Avalon Advanced Materials successfully produced lithium hydroxide and the by‑product analcime using Metso’s proprietary alkaline leach process at its Thunder Bay pilot facility.
• The trial demonstrated high lithium recovery and purity while eliminating sulfuric acid use, reducing water consumption by up to 60 % and markedly lowering carbon emissions versus conventional acid‑leach or roasting flowsheets.
• Avalon will move to engineering‑scale scale‑up, optimize the process, and explore commercial applications for analcime, including use in cement production.

Key Details

• Process Validation: Conversion of lithium‑bearing mineral concentrate to battery‑grade lithium hydroxide confirmed with high recovery rates and product purity; simultaneous generation of inert analcime by‑product.
• Environmental Benefits: No sulfuric acid or sulfate reagents required → eliminates corrosive effluent; up to 60 % reduction in water use; lower energy consumption; near‑zero discharge; smaller overall carbon footprint versus traditional acid leach/roasting.
• By‑Product Potential: Analcime is neutral, reusable, and can replace conventional additives in cement, potentially reducing CO₂ emissions and diverting waste from landfills.
• Strategic Alignment: Supports Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy, Strategic Innovation Fund, and Clean Growth Hub objectives to secure domestic lithium supply chains.
• Next Steps: Advance to engineering‑scale pilot; conduct process optimization; commercialize lithium hydroxide product; evaluate industrial pathways for analcime (e.g., cement industry).
• Qualified Person: Andrew Ramcharan, PEng, PhD, VP Corporate Development – NI 43‑101 qualified person reviewed and approved the technical disclosure.

Notable Quotes

“This is an exciting breakthrough and transformational for Avalon… clean, efficient and scalable lithium processing can be achieved right here in Canada.” – Scott Monteith, CEO, Avalon Advanced Materials

“The environmental advantages of Metso's alkaline leach process are truly transformative… it represents a step change toward responsible resource conversion.” – Mark N.J. Ashcroft, PEng, Strategic Consultant, Lake Superior lithium facility