First Phosphate Corp. (CSE:PHOS, NASDAQ:PHOS, FRA:KD0, OTCQX:FRSPF) said a peer-reviewed study has confirmed its Bégin-Lamarche deposit as a potential high-purity phosphate source for battery-grade phosphoric acid production.
The study, published in Ore Geology Reviews on ScienceDirect, a leading scientific journal focused on ore genesis and exploration, found that the deposit's economic, phosphate-rich layers are low in chlorine and other trace elements, a precursor in the manufacture of lithium iron phosphate battery cathode active material.
Scientists from Queen's University and Université du Québec à Chicoutimi examined the geological characterization of the Mountain, North and South Zones of the Bégin-Lamarche deposit, part of the 1.14 Ga Lac-Saint-Jean Anorthositic Suite, the world's largest anorthosite complex.
The study found apatite as the primary phosphatic mineralization, confirming the magmatic origin and continuity of the phosphate-bearing zones, with testing showing concentrate levels around 40% P₂O₅, above global averages for igneous phosphate.
Low levels of deleterious trace elements, compared with sedimentary phosphate deposits, further support the potential for high-purity purified phosphoric acid suitable for LFP cathode applications.
The geometry, thickness and near-surface occurrence of certain phosphate layers point to favorable conditions for potential open-pit mining scenarios, subject to further engineering and mine planning studies, the study said.
Findings provide a foundation for exploring other igneous phosphate layers throughout the Québec anorthosite suitable for LFP battery production, and that the results may apply to other phosphatic anorthosites globally.
Shares of First Phosphate gained over 7% on Monday in Toronto and New York.
