Element 25 Butcherbird Manganese Project Expansion Accelerates

Element 25 Butcherbird Manganese Project Expansion Targets 1.1mtpa Output

Element 25 reports strong progress on its Butcherbird manganese project expansion, aiming to raise production to 1.1 million tonnes per annum. The company appointed Altris Engineering as lead engineer. It also conducts process improvement studies to reduce costs and increase operational flexibility. Meanwhile, the mining services contract tender nears final selection.

The expansion secures essential equipment, including mineral sizers and a log washer, to meet production targets. Offtake negotiations continue, with multiple term sheets under review. These agreements aim to supply both traditional steel markets and future battery-grade manganese operations.

Element 25 finances the project with a A$10m placement and a A$50m senior debt facility from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility. The company also negotiates additional funding to complete construction and commissioning.

Updated Reserves and Resources Strengthen Butcherbird Expansion

Strategic Growth in Manganese Supply and Battery-Grade Feedstock

The Butcherbird mine’s updated ore reserve rises 107% to 101.4mt at 10.4% manganese. This contains 10.54mt of manganese and supports an 18-year life-of-mine at the planned 1.1mtpa rate. The latest mineral resource estimate increases 6% to 274mt at 10% manganese. Measured and indicated resources rise 142% to 130mt at 10.23% manganese.

The BBX expansion supports Element 25’s strategy to supply manganese concentrate to steel producers. It also provides feedstock for a planned high-purity manganese sulphate monohydrate (HPMSM) plant in Louisiana, US. Regulatory approvals under WA frameworks are secured, including from the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation and the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.

The program integrates cost-saving process improvements. These measures increase execution flexibility and improve production efficiency. Together, they strengthen Element 25’s position in steel and battery materials markets.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Element 25’s Butcherbird expansion reflects rising manganese demand in steel and battery sectors. Increased reserves and resources extend the mine’s lifespan. The project supports high-purity manganese supply for EV batteries. Strong execution, regulatory compliance, and financing allow Element 25 to capture opportunities in both traditional and emerging manganese markets.