Focus Graphite Advanced Materials Launches a Geometallurgical Flake Characterization Study at Lac Knife to Advance Mining Efficiency and Sustainability Goals

Rhea-AI Summary

Focus Graphite has initiated a flake characterization study at its Lac Knife graphite deposit in northern Quebec, conducted by IOS Géosciences. This strategic initiative employs advanced imaging techniques and AI-based algorithms to analyze graphite flake distribution, size, and purity from drill cores.

The study encompasses several key components: high-resolution optical imaging for mapping flake distribution, advanced analytical tools using the ARTSection automated correlative microscopy platform, flake size calibration through grinding and beneficiation tests, environmental characterization to identify deleterious minerals, and pilot-scale testing for industrial validation.

The project aims to enhance mining efficiency, reduce operational costs, and minimize environmental impact. CEO Dean Hanisch highlighted that this study enables potential smaller-scale initial operations with the flexibility to scale up based on demand, while maintaining strong margins and fulfilling specific flake size requirements for various applications.

OTTAWA, ON / ACCESS Newswire / February 6, 2025 / Focus Graphite Inc. (TSX.V:FMS)(OTCQX:FCSMF)(FSE:FKC) ("Focus" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the commencement of a flake characterization study at its Lac Knife graphite deposit in northern Quebec. The study, conducted by IOS Géosciences out of Saguenay, Quebec, is the first step in Focus's strategy towards maximizing its resource value in the event of exploitation at its Lac Knife and Lac Tétépisca projects.

As a technology-driven company, Focus Graphite Advanced Materials is committed to leveraging the latest available technologies to enhance resource extraction and maximize the value of its potential products by adapting the mining operation to fulfill the diverse needs of the various niches of the graphite market, ensuring that its mining and processing methods are at the cutting edge of innovation. This initiative aligns with Focus's commitment to responsible mining practices, complementing its green anode purification process and reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable graphite production.

Understanding the Flake Characterization Study

The flake characterization study employs cutting-edge imaging techniques to analyze the distribution, size, and purity of graphite flakes directly from drill core and to integrate such information into the resource model. The study focuses on:

• High-Resolution Optical Imaging and Image Processing: Core cuttings are mapped for in-situ distribution of jumbo, large, medium, and small graphite flakes to enable incorporation of estimated flake value in individual resource block models, informing selective mining strategies.

• Advanced Analytical Tools: The study utilizes the ARTSection automated correlative microscopy platform developed by IOS Geosciences, integrating different types of images including circular polarization, phase contrast, and back-scattered electron images. These images are segmented using AI-based algorithms to individualize flakes and provide textural quantification through routine, low-cost analyses.

• Flake Size Calibration: A series of grinding and beneficiation tests are being conducted. Concentrates will be analyzed for Carbon Content and Purity through Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) to refine downstream processing approaches.

• Environmental Characterization: The study will identify the abundance and textures of environmentally deleterious minerals, and tests will be conducted for sulfide recovery. By targeting high-purity zones and avoiding unnecessary disruption of non-graphitic material, the company aims to reduce waste and minimize its environmental footprint.

• Pilot-Scale Testing: Preliminary extractions will validate the feasibility of processing high-purity graphite at an industrial scale, ensuring optimized yield and efficiency.

Strategic Benefits of the Study

• Improve the accuracy of the block model, enabling lower cut-off grades.

• Enhance efficiency of graphite extraction and processing, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

• Strengthen Focus Graphite Advanced Materials' position as a provider of premium, high-grade graphite tailored for niche applications such as energy storage, aerospace, and defense.

• Support sustainable resource development and responsible stewardship of high-purity flake graphite.

• Demonstrate the Company's commitment to technological advancements in mineral exploration and processing.

Executive Commentary

Dean Hanisch, CEO of Focus Graphite Advanced Materials, emphasized the importance of the study in advancing the company's sustainability goals and technological leadership as well as creating mining flexibility:

"Our flake characterization study is a critical component of Focus's commitment to responsible mining, efficiency, and innovation. By applying the latest mineralogical analysis technologies, we can optimize extraction while reducing environmental impact, ensuring our resources are utilized to their fullest potential. This knowledge will help Focus should it decide to initially operate a smaller-scale mining operation where it can fulfill smaller off-takes or orders and mine efficiently to meet the orders based on flake size needs for various applications. This flexibility allows for a potentially smaller initial footprint, enabling the Company to maintain strong margins should it choose to start slow and scale up as demand increases."

About Focus Graphite Inc.

Focus Graphite Inc. is an advanced materials company developing sustainable mining and technology innovations. At the heart of our operations is the Lac Knife flake graphite deposit, known for its high purity and grade-ideal for applications in the military, defense, and green energy revolutions. Currently advancing through Canada's mine permitting process, Focus Graphite is on the verge of transforming this resource into a viable supplier of critical mineral.

Our proprietary, environmentally sustainable processing technologies ensure a green, chemical-free pathway from mine to market. The Company's proprietary silicon-enhanced spheroidized graphite patent technology is aimed at improving battery performance. We specialize in producing advanced, high-purity graphite materials tailored for diverse industries, including EV batteries, military applications, and high-tech manufacturing.

Focus Graphite's commitment extends beyond resource extraction-we are actively seeking partnerships with industry leaders, academic institutions, and government bodies to try and accelerate the commercialization of advanced materials and technologies derived from our flagship project. As a proud Canadian company, we are dedicated to contributing to North America's secure and sustainable critical minerals supply chain.

For more information on Focus Graphite Inc. please visit https://focusgraphite.com/

Investors Contact:

Dean Hanisch
CEO, Focus Graphite Inc.
dhanisch@focusgraphite.com
613-612-6060

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could," "intend," "expect," "believe," "will," "projected," "estimated," and similar expressions, as well as statements relating to matters that are not historical facts, are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events.

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the Company's plans to advance its Lac Knife and Tétépisca projects through permitting, resource development, and commercialization efforts; the anticipated completion of an updated NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate for Tétépisca; the potential for Lac Knife to become a key supplier of high-purity flake graphite; the Company's ability to secure off-take agreements and strategic partnerships; the anticipated performance and scalability of the Company's proprietary silicon-enhanced spheroidized graphite technology; the expected benefits of its environmentally friendly purification process; and the Company's positioning as a key player in securing North American critical mineral supply chains.

Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information, including, in respect of the forward-looking information included in this press release, assumptions regarding the Company's ability to obtain necessary permits and approvals on anticipated timelines, the successful execution of exploration and development programs, the viability and scalability of its proprietary graphite processing technologies, the ability to attract commercial partners, and the continuation of favorable market conditions for graphite demand in energy storage, electric vehicles, and other advanced industrial applications.

Although forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions made by the Company's management, there can be no assurance that any forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, risks related to permitting and regulatory approvals; delays or challenges in the exploration, development, or commercialization of the Company's projects and technologies; changes in graphite market demand and pricing; technological and operational challenges in scaling up proprietary processing technologies; financing risks; and the general risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits.

The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties, and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The TSX Venture Exchange and OTCQX have not reviewed, approved, or disapproved the contents of this press release.

SOURCE: Focus Graphite Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

FAQ

What are the main objectives of Focus Graphite's (FCSMF) flake characterization study at Lac Knife?

The study aims to analyze graphite flake distribution, size, and purity using advanced imaging techniques, optimize resource extraction, reduce operational costs, and minimize environmental impact while enabling flexible mining operations.

How will the 2025 flake characterization study benefit FCSMF shareholders?

The study will improve block model accuracy, reduce operational costs, enable smaller initial mining operations with scaling flexibility, and strengthen Focus Graphite's position in premium graphite markets.

What technology is Focus Graphite (FCSMF) using in their Lac Knife characterization study?

The study uses the ARTSection automated correlative microscopy platform, AI-based algorithms, high-resolution optical imaging, and advanced analytical tools for flake analysis and characterization.

How does FCSMF's flake characterization study support environmental sustainability?

The study identifies deleterious minerals, enables targeted high-purity zone mining, reduces waste, and minimizes environmental footprint through optimized extraction and processing methods.

What market applications will benefit from FCSMF's Lac Knife graphite characterization?

The study supports providing premium, high-grade graphite for energy storage, aerospace, and defense applications, with the ability to fulfill specific flake size requirements for various markets.