Key Takeaways:
- Focus Graphite Inc. has developed and validated a low-cost, AI-enabled in situ graphite flake size characterization technology.
- The technology enables high-resolution mapping of graphite flake size distribution directly from conventional drill core material.
- Preliminary results indicate an inverse relationship between graphite grade and flake size, supporting the potential for a lower cut-off grade and improved project economics.
- The technology is expected to be applied to the Lac Knife Project, supporting efficient, scalable, and ESG-aligned mining strategies.
- The company’s geometallurgical model and upcoming mineral resource estimate update are expected to incorporate the results of this technology.
Introduction to the Technology
Focus Graphite Inc. has announced the successful development and validation of a novel, low-cost AI-enabled in situ graphite flake size characterization technology. This technology has been integrated into the geometallurgical model of the company’s 100%-owned Lac Tetepisca Graphite Project in Quebec. The technology enables high-resolution characterization of flake size distribution across the deposit without the need for extensive bulk metallurgical testing, supporting improved resource valuation and mine planning.
Technology Overview and Key Findings
The technology applies AI-based RGB image analysis to high-resolution optical microscopy images of graphite flakes recovered from coarse rejects generated during routine assaying. This provides a scalable and repeatable approach to flake size characterization. The methodology has been benchmarked against bench-scale metallurgical testing on 30 composite samples and independently validated using automated particle analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Approximately 300 samples are currently being processed to populate a geometallurgical model for the MOGC deposit. Preliminary results indicate an inverse relationship between graphite grade and flake size, with lower-grade zones hosting a significantly higher proportion of jumbo flakes.
Operational and ESG Implications
The technology enables more selective mining, enhanced alignment of production with customer specifications, reduced inventory requirements, and improved control over process costs. Understanding where specific flake size populations occur within the deposit allows Focus to mine with intent, optimizing extraction based on end-market demand while minimizing waste and unnecessary material movement. This upstream mining discipline complements the company’s downstream ESG initiatives, including the development of low-emission, chemical-free purification technologies. Together, these strategies support a lower-impact, mine-to-market value chain and responsible stewardship of a critical mineral.
MOGC Resource Background
The MOGC flake graphite deposit is part of the company’s Lac Tetepisca Project, located southwest of the Manicouagan Reservoir on the Nitassinan of the Pessamit Innu First Nation, in Quebec’s Cote-Nord region. The MOGC is currently defined by a linear 1.5 km long segment of an 8 km long folded geophysical magnetic-electromagnetic anomaly that trends N035°. The April 4, 2022 NI 43-101 Technical Report outlines a pit-constrained Indicated Resource of 59.3 million tonnes (Mt) grading 10.61% Graphitic Carbon (Cg) for an estimated content of 6.3 Mt of natural flake graphite (in situ), plus an Inferred Resource of 14.9 Mt grading 11.06% Cg for an estimated content of 1.6 Mt of natural flake graphite.
Conclusion and Future Plans
The company’s commitment to innovation ensures a chemical-free, eco-friendly supply chain from mine to market. Collaboration is at the core of the company’s vision, with active partnerships with industry leaders, research institutions, and government agencies to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation graphite materials. As a North American company, Focus Graphite is dedicated to securing a resilient, locally sourced supply of critical minerals, reducing dependence on foreign-controlled markets, and driving the transition to a sustainable future. The company plans to apply the AI-enabled flake size characterization methodology to its Lac Knife Project, supporting efficient, scalable, and ESG-aligned mining strategies across its graphite portfolio.
