Marula Mining PLC has advanced its work at the Blesberg Lithium and Tantalum Mine, where further metallurgical testing and bulk sampling are underway. A 30-tonne bulk sample has been collected for detailed analysis aimed at optimising processing strategies.
The programme involves crushing the sample into -80mm and -25mm fractions and assessing both physical and chemical properties. Earlier tests showed the ore is composed of 60% to 80% microcline and plagioclase feldspar, with aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃) grades around 18%. Combined calcium oxide (CaO) and magnesium oxide (MgO) levels are below 1%, while the combined content of sodium oxide (Na₂O), potassium oxide (K₂O), lithium oxide (Li₂O), and rubidium oxide (Rb₂O) exceeds 11%. Together, Al₂O₃, K₂O, CaO, and MgO account for more than 30% of the ore.
Alongside test work, the company is also advancing its Mining Rights application and finalising its Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) structure.
Assay results included:
· Al₂O₃ grades of approximately 18%
· Combined CaO and MgO grades of less than 1%
· Combined Na₂O, K₂O, Li₂O, and Rb₂O grades exceeding 11%
· Combined Al₂O₃, K₂O, CaO, and MgO grades of over 30%.
The Company is continuing to advance its applications for a Mining Right at Blesberg and has satisfied two of the three key conditions with Environmental Authorisation for the Mining Right and submission of an updated Social Labour Plan having already been progressed.
