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ALTECH BATTERIES LTD — Interim / Quarterly Report 2014
Jul 30, 2014
64444_rns_2014-07-30_bb215cbd-4529-4a5f-bcbc-99bd92e9410b.pdf
Interim / Quarterly Report
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quarterly report JuNe 2014
ASX: AKA Options: AKAO
highlights
High Purity Alumina (HPA) Project
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Integrated Plant Study
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Test Work has identified considerable efficiencies to streamline the process.
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Bulk Sample Production
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Significant cost savings identified by the Study conducted by AMMG’s specialist engineering consultants (Consultants);
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Bulk sample program has commenced to produce 99.99% (4N) HPA to send to potential off ~~-~~ take partners;
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Based on 700tpa off-mine site HPA processing pilot plant (Plant):
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Final stage grinding to cater to end-user specifications is being investigated;
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Plant opex $8.56/kg (incl. +/-20% accuracy);
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Plant capex <$10m (incl. +/- 30% accuracy).
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DMP approval for extraction of a total 10,000t kaolin from EL70/3923 (Meckering) to support AMMG’s initial HPA feedstock requirements.
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Successful Optimisation Test Work
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Assays from intermediate aluminium chloride confirm purity of 99.994% alumina can be produced, provided no impurities are added in the final stages;
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Off ~~-~~ take Negotiations and Funding
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Some major HPA producers have expressed an interest in potential Plant funding as well as requesting sample;
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• With the Study’s findings, AMMG is advancing various fundraising options for its proposed Plant.
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Test Work nearing completion with focus now on procedure for materials handling in the final stages of calcination and washing, rather than the chemical process;
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information
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Australia Minerals & Mining Group
(AMMG)
ABN 45 125 301 206
Financial Information
(as at 30 June 2014)
Share Price: 0.081
Shares: 107.75m
Market Cap: 8.62m
Cash: $1.78m
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3 Bay Road, Claremont, Western Australia, 6010 Tel: +61 (08) 9389 5557 Fax: +61 (08) 9389 5510 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ammg.com.au
board
South West Kaolin DSO Project
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
- Following strong interest received from some major international kaolin endusers and potential customers, AMMG is exploring the opportunity for a potential bulk direct shipping ore (DSO) operation;
separation for a wide variety of end-use applications;
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Samples of AMMG’s naturally pure kaolin sent to external laboratories and processing experts for test work;
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• AMMG’s JORC defined kaolin resource currently stands at 297Mt.
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AMMG has commenced an internal scoping study to review the feasibility of processing its primary kaolin by dry
Corporate
LUKE ATKINS LLB Non-executive Chairman
PETER BAILEY B.Sc(Hons) Elect.Eng MIEE C.Eng Non-executive director
DAN TENARDI Non-executive director
PIERS LEWIS B.Comm/CA Company Secretary & CFO Acting Chief Executive Officer
BOARD OF DIRECTORS & MANAGEMENT
- Mr Ric Dawson’s employment contract will not be renewed in line with the Company’s long-term strategic goals;
experience in plant operations and construction, project management, acid mineral processing, project funding and off-take negotiations to facilitate the advancement of its HPA of its HPA HPA project;
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Company secretary/CFO Mr Piers funding and off-take negotiations to Lewis will serve as acting chief facilitate the advancement of its HPA of its HPA HPA executive officer (CEO) until a new project; appointment is made; • A number of highly qualified
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• AMMG has commenced the search candidates have approached AMMG.
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AMMG has commenced the search for a suitably qualified individual with
Corporate
FINANCE
- Fully subscribed placement of 21,465,000 options for an additional working capital of $42,930;
portfolio of non-core projects to cut costs;
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AMMG remains well funded with circa $1.78m in the Bank as at 30 June 2014.
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Substantial reductions in tenement
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Fig 1. Intermediate aluminium chloride sample
www.ammg.com.au
AMMG Quarterly Activities Report ~~-~~ June 2014 Quarter
quarterly report JuNe 2014
ASX: AKA Options: AKAO
High Purity Alumina (HPA) Project
Integrated Plant Study
During the quarter an integrated plant study (Study) was successfully completed, which was based on the kaolin to high purity alumina (HPA) process flowsheet specifically researched and developed by AMMG (click here to view the announcement). The Study was conducted by AMMG’s specialist engineering consultants (Consultants) in conjunction with an optimisation test work program (Test Work), which is nearing completion.
AMMG’s Study, termed the “Integrated Plant Study”, aimed to confirm the economic flow sheet developed by AMMG and was based on the test outcomes and Consultants’ engineering knowledge. The scope of work included providing deliverables such as process flow diagrams, process design criteria, capital/operating cost estimates, mass/energy balance, equipment sizing and reagent calculation.
The Study’s findings indicated significant cost savings to capital (capex) and operating (opex) expenditure for the Company’s proposed HPA processing pilot plant (Plant).
Using a base case of 700t/year (or approximately 2t/day) the off-mine site Plant’s capex is estimated at under $10m, which is inclusive of a +/- 30% accuracy. The Plant’s opex is estimated at $8.56/kg, inclusive of +/- 20% accuracy. Based on major industry producers’ recently reported HPA prices, the average price for HPA is around US$54/kg and can potentially sell up to $300/kg (depending on purity and other specifications). The Study’s findings support a business case for AMMG to deliver a potentially competitive product.
The positive findings established during the Study and the current Test Work were a result of further developing major operating parameters by incorporating several efficiencies into AMMG’s process flowsheet, with the following benefits identified:
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extraction of impurities and/or minimise reagent consumption;
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Lower energy costs by amending specific process stages and/or alternative equipment selection;
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Lower potential environmental factors by recycling, minimising waste and alternative equipment selection;
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Lower equipment costs by sourcing qualified overseas suppliers rather than locally or custom-designed; and
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• Lower operating costs by sourcing alternate reagent suppliers, amending reagent types, or recycling to reduce reagent consumption.
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Removal/amendments to non-essential stages of the flowsheet;
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Introduction of innovative equipment solutions to increase efficiencies and lower costs;
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- Amendments to process flowsheet to maximise the
Bulk Sample Production
AMMG’s Consultants have commenced the bulk sample program (see Fig 2), which aims to produce a large trade sample of approximately 20kgs of 99.99% (4N) HPA for despatch to international end-users and potential off-take customers.
Additionally, AMMG is investigating final stage grinding options to cater to individual end ~~-~~ user specifications for 4N HPA.
DMP Approval for Kaolin Extraction
During the quarter AMMG’s application for “excess tonnage” was approved by the Western Australian state government mines department (DMP) pursuant to the Mining Act 1978. The approval permits the extraction of additional tonnes of kaolin totalling 10,000 tonnes from AMMG’s 100%-owned Meckering exploration licence (EL) 70/3923. The DMP approval will support AMMG’s initial feedstock requirements for its HPA processing technology.
Fig 2. Bulk sample program to produce 99.99% (4N) HPA underway
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www.ammg.com.au
AMMG Quarterly Activities Report ~~-~~ June 2014 Quarter
quarterly report JuNe 2014
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High Purity Alumina (HPA) Project
Successful Optimisation Test Work Results
The preliminary assay results of the intermediate aluminium chloride confirm that a grade of 99.994% aluminum oxide (Al2O3) can be produced as long as no impurities are added in the final stages.
To date the optimisation test work (Test Work) has identified considerable efficiencies to streamline the process by way of optimising reagent concentrations, solid-liquid ratios, temperatures as well as the consolidation of solid/liquid separation and washing equipment.
The initial leaching phase of AMMG’s process was successfully conducted on a continuous basis (refer to Fig 4), which confirmed its capacity for the full-scale processing pilot plant (Plant). Lower-thanexpected optimal leaching temperatures were also determined, which reduces the energy consumption.
These efficiencies were incorporated into the design of AMMG’s HPA Plant detailed in the announcement dated June 5, 2014 (please click here to view the announcement).
AMMG engaged the Consultants in January 2014 (click here to view the announcement) to conduct the Test Work on the process flowsheet researched and developed by the Company and to subsequently produce a bulk trade sample of 4N HPA product.
Fig 3. Aluminium chloride assay results confirm that a grade of 99.994% alumina can be produced
Final Stages of Optimisation Test Work
The last remaining stages of the Test Work are nearing completion with the focus now centred on refining the procedure for materials handling in the final calcination and washing stages, rather than the actual chemical process.
Following the successful production of the aluminium chloride that confirms aluminum oxide can be produced at 99.994% purity, the final process stages of calcination and washing depend on a highly efficient materials handling system to ensure that no outside material or contaminants are introduced into the process. These final stages of the Test Work are currently underway. Further updates will be announced upon completion.
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Fig 4. Continuous leaching stage
Off ~~-~~ take Negotiations and Funding
AMMG is highly encouraged by the favourable opex/capex indicated by the Study. Following the completion of the current Test Work, the Company will move forward towards finalising a competitive funding arrangement for its proposed Plant.
AMMG has received requests for samples from a number of HPA end-users and potential off-take customers from around the world, as well as some of the major HPA producers who have expressed an interest in potential Plant funding. The Company looks forward to providing its 4N HPA sample to those interested end-users and potential off-take partners.
In parallel to developing its ongoing fundraising activities in Australia, AMMG is advancing its funding strategy for the Canadian capital and investment markets, following the investor road show conducted in early 2014.
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www.ammg.com.au
AMMG Quarterly Activities Report ~~-~~ June 2014 Quarter
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South West Kaolin DSO Project Western Australia
Based on the level of unsolicited interest received from several international kaolin end-users and potential customers, AMMG commenced an internal scoping study to review the feasibility of a potential bulk direct shipping ore (DSO) kaolin operation.
A major overseas export/shipping company also approached AMMG regarding a potential joint venture opportunity for the co-operation and development of a kaolin export operation. Highly competitive indicative transport costs from pit to destination port were proposed as well as innovative logistics handling solutions. Discussions are continuing.
Given the enormity of its world ~~-~~ class resource (297Mt combined JORC kaolin resource) as well as the exploration target potential of the surface outcropping kaolin, the opportunity exists for a potentially sustainable kaolin DSO export to operate within AMMG’s kaolin project.
As such the extensive kaolin resource could be shared across both the high purity alumina (HPA) processing plant as well as the proposed DSO operation.
AMMG’s internal scoping study aims to determine the value proposition of processing the kaolin using a “dry separation” method to cater to a wide variety of high-end applications such as advanced ceramics, fibre glass, rubbers, high quality coatings and glosses. Preliminary findings have indicated lower processing costs associated with the dry method compared to the standard wet processing method.
The Company is gaining confidence that, based on external expert advice and previous test work results, its unique kaolin product has the potential to meet the required specifications such as whiteness, particle size distribution, brightness or low levels of impurities for several applications as listed above. Further, as the properties of the final processed kaolin product are highly dependent on the properties inherent in the raw kaolin, AMMG believes its kaolin’s unique inherent properties will support the production of a highly desirable product.
The Company’s current position with regards to the development of a potential kaolin DSO project is reviewing the most efficient and economical dry processing options in order to achieve the desired specifications for high-end applications. AMMG has provided samples of its naturally pure kaolin to external laboratories and processing experts for processing and classification test work.
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Fig 5. AMMG’s raw kaolin material with unique inherent properties
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Fig 6. Inside the kaolin trial test pit located at Meckering
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AMMG Quarterly Activities Report ~~-~~ June 2014 Quarter
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Board of Directors/Management
During the quarter AMMG announced that Mr Ric Dawson’s employment contract will not be renewed at its conclusion, 9 July 2014, in line with the Company’s long-term strategic goals.
As the Company moves towards the development of its proposed HPA processing pilot plant it requires a suitably qualified individual with experience in plant operations/construction, acid mineral processing, plant implementation, project management, plant commissioning, project funding and off-take negotiations.
The board would like to thank Mr Dawson for the role he has played over the past three and a half years as the Company’s inaugural managing director.
AMMG has commenced the process to secure a new managing director; until that time, company secretary/CFO Mr Piers Lewis will serve as acting chief executive officer (CEO).
A number of highly qualified candidates have approached AMMG and discussions are progressing.
Corporate
During the quarter AMMG announced the fully subscribed placement of 21,465,000 options for an additional working capital of $42,930. Each option has an exercise price of $0.20 each on or before 5.00 pm (WST) on 31 May 2015.
AMMG conducted an internal review of its non-core projects and as a result substantial reductions were made within the Company’s tenement portfolio. AMMG’s tenement exploration expenditure and commitments have therefore significantly decreased.
Working Capital
AMMG remains well funded with current cash reserves of circa $1.78m as at 30 June 2014.
The federal government’s R&D Tax Incentive Scheme supports Australian R&D activities by providing cash refunds to those eligible companies.
Subsequent to quarter end, AMMG completed its 2013-2014 R&D tax incentive claim based on its extensive R&D-related activities conducted over the financial year. AMMG anticipates a considerable cash rebate on its R&D expenditure.
Contact
AMMG Mr Piers Lewis - Acting CEO Tel: +61 (08) 9389 5557 [email protected]
MEDIA CONTACT
Tony Dawe - Professional Public Relations (PPR) Tel: +61 (08) 9388 0944 [email protected]
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www.ammg.com.au
AMMG Quarterly Activities Report ~~-~~ June 2014 Quarter
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About AMMG
AMMG was established in 2007 and listed on the ASX in January 2010 for the purpose of securing exploration ground over areas that have typically been subject to historical exploration and where significant geological data was available and/or the land was considered sufficiently prospective.
Areas with existing or potential access to infrastructure were also targeted.
To date, the Company has identified a diversified suite of mineral projects located in Western Australia and Queensland. AMMG is now focused on advancing its key projects.
As at quarter end, the Company had 11 granted tenements and 16 tenement applications (in Western Australia and Queensland) totalling approximately 5,020km².
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Fig 7. AMMG’s projects located in the southwest region of Western Australia
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AMMG Quarterly Activities Report ~~-~~ June 2014 Quarter
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Schedule of Tenements
AMMG wishes to provide the following information in relation to additional information required by Listing Rule 5.3.3. Exploration tenements held at the end of the June 2014 quarter and their location:
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Interest at beginning Interest at end of
Tenement ID Location Project Grant Date
of quarter quarter
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| Location | Project | Grant Date | Interest at beginning ofquarter |
Interest at end of quarter |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E70/4341 E70/4581 EPM16620 EPM17919 EPM18375 EPM19772 EPM19773 E70/4548 E45/4067 E63/1700 E70/4569 E70/4578 E70/4579 E70/4585 E77/1746 E77/1747 E77/1748 E77/1770 E77/2113 E08/2506 EPM18030 E70/3923 E70/4580 E70/4582 E70/4534 E70/4131 E70/4577 |
WA, Australia | GlenartyCreek | 16/01/2013 | 100% | 100% |
| WA, Australia | Bobalong | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| QLD, Australia | Constance Range | 4/11/2008 | 100% | 100% | |
| QLD, Australia | Constance Range | 28/02/2011 | 100% | 100% | |
| QLD, Australia | Constance Range | 27/04/2012 | 100% | 100% | |
| QLD, Australia | Constance Range | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| QLD, Australia | Constance Range | 11/02/2013 | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Donnelly | Application | 0% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | East Pilbara | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Gibson | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | GlenartyCreek | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Green Range | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Kerrigan | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Kerrigan | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Lake Deborah | 21/09/2010 | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Lake Deborah | 21/09/2010 | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Lake Deborah | 21/09/2010 | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Lake Deborah | 8/11/2010 | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Lake Deborah | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Lake Macleod | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| QLD, Australia | Maytown | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Meckering | 26/11/2010 | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Meckering | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Meckering | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Meckering | Application | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Pingaring | 31/05/2012 | 100% | 100% | |
| WA, Australia | Bencubbin | Application | 100% | 100% |
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AMMG Quarterly Activities Report ~~-~~ June 2014 Quarter