Total Graphite has engaged Lycopodium Minerals Africa to review and update feasibility work on the Montepuez Graphite Project in Mozambique.
The project, which holds a permit for up to 100,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of graphite concentrate production, will use the modular development approach outlined in an October 2017 Value Engineering Study (VES) as its base scenario.
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Under the terms of the appointment, Lycopodium will re-examine the process design and flowsheet for the Montepuez site.
The review will also consider alternative processing technologies with the aim of improving operational performance and project economics.
Additionally, the consultancy will conduct a gap analysis of detailed design elements and assess the adequacy of prior metallurgical testing, as well as early site works that include a base camp, crusher and power units.
Initial results from this phase of work are targeted for November 2026.
The company has indicated that, subject to these findings, a second phase will follow to formally update the feasibility study.
This is expected to precede attempts to secure project finance, with a view to resuming construction in 2027.
The October 2017 VES proposed a two-stage modular development, beginning with approximately 50,000tpa at 96.7% total graphitic carbon (TGC) concentrate for a pre-production capital expenditure of $42.3m (£31.2m).
Stage two would add nearly 49,000tpa for an additional $27m, bringing total capacity close to 100,000tpa at a projected total capital expenditure of $69m.
The company noted that these estimates will be adjusted for cost inflation but expects its capital efficiency to remain competitive in the sector.
Total Graphite’s Montepuez site is reported to contain 110.5 million tonnes (mt) of mineral resources at an average grade of 8.2% TGC, for 9.1mt of contained graphite.
The company also holds the Balama Central project in northern Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province, and there are plans to update its pre-feasibility study after the Montepuez review is complete.
Total Graphite chairman Christian Dennis said: “The appointment of Lycopodium marks an important step in advancing Montepuez back towards construction and production.
“What differentiates Montepuez from many development-stage graphite projects is how much work has already been completed.
“The project is permitted for production of up to 100,000tpa, approximately 60% of the detailed engineering was historically completed and initial site infrastructure has already been established.”
