Mining News
'Now they are reaching out to us' - Giyani Metals on battery makers' growing interest in manganese
(Kitco News) - Battery makers’ interest in manganese is growing, said Eugene Lee, CFO of Giyani Metals.
In June Lee spoke to Kitco at the Mining Investment Event of the North in Quebec City.
Giyani Metals (CVE:EMM) is a battery metal development company focused on assets in the Kanye Basin, located in south-eastern Botswana, Africa. The company's flagship project is its K.Hill asset. The company's goal is to become a low-carbon producer of high-purity manganese sulphate monohydrate, which is used in some lithium-ion battery chemistries. The company is working towards a feasibility study, due in Q3 of this year, as well as building a demonstration plant.
Battery chemistry for lithium-ion batteries is evolving due to trade-offs using different elements and technological advances. Lee said the chief characteristic provided by manganese is stability, preventing thermal runaway.
"Companies seem to be moving towards manganese-rich formulations because it takes away some of the price volatility and sustainability issues that you have with cobalt and even with the nickel," said Lee, who notes that China accounts for 90% of global production, but he said that battery makers are seeking suppliers outside China.
Lee said interest is growing.
"What's changed for us is...being in a mineral that was less recognized. We sometimes had difficulties reaching out to potential off-takers. What's changed in the last six months is that instead of us having to cold call someone and try and connect, these organizations are now reaching out to us."
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