Australia Encouraged to Advance Lithium Processing Capabilities
Australia's lithium processing initiatives are vital for developing local electric vehicle power sources. PLS emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus on on-shore processing to capitalize on rising lithium demand amidst market volatility.
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PLS advocates for Australia to enhance its on-shore lithium processing capabilities to support domestic electric vehicle production. The company's Pilgangoora operation has developed a mid-stream demonstration plant utilizing electric calcination for lithium phosphate conversion.
Currently, much of Australia's spodumene concentrate is exported to China for processing into lithium compounds essential for batteries. Despite past price volatility, recent increases in lithium prices, currently between $US17,000 and $US22,000 per metric tonne for carbonate and $US18,550 for hydroxide, signal potential growth. The cyclical nature of the industry poses risks, necessitating strategic capital investment in sustainable resources.
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