PMET Partners with Mitsui and MWCC to Pilot Microwave Lithium Refining
PMET Resources has signed a memorandum of understanding with Mitsui & Co. and Microwave Chemical Co. to test proprietary microwave calcination technology at its Shaakichiuwaanaan lithium project. The collaboration seeks to leverage Québec’s renewable hydroelectric power to transition from fossil-fuel-based processing toward a lower-carbon, on-site refining model.
The initiative targets the calcination phase, a critical step in converting spodumene concentrate into value-added lithium chemicals. By replacing conventional heat sources with electric microwave technology, PMET aims to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate directly at the mine site. This approach is intended to reduce logistics intensity and truck traffic while curbing reliance on offshore conversion facilities.
Technical validation is underway in Osaka, where Microwave Chemical Co. is testing 1.5 tonnes of spodumene concentrate sourced from the Québec project. PMET CEO Ken Brinsden described the project as a central pillar of the company's downstream growth strategy, noting that integrating high-quality resources with specialized processing technology could establish a more resilient, Western-facing supply chain. While the agreement is non-binding, it sets a framework for evaluating commercial deployment, pending the success of pilot results and future economic assessments.
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