First Phosphate deposit study published in scientific journal

First Phosphate Corporation's Bégin-Lamarche Igneous Phosphate Deposit has been the subject of a peer-reviewed study published in the scientific journal Ore Geology Reviews. The research, conducted by experts from Queen's University and Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, analyzed the geological features of the phosphate-rich layers within the deposit.

The study revealed that these layers possess low chlorine and trace element content, making them ideal for producing purified phosphoric acid, a key component in lithium iron phosphate battery manufacturing. The research concentrated on the Mountain, North, and South Zones of the Bégin-Lamarche deposit, situated in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, Canada.

The Lac-Saint-Jean Anorthositic Suite, dating back 1.14 billion years, hosts this deposit. The study identified apatite as the primary phosphatic mineral within the deposit, with concentrate levels of around 40% P₂O₅. The findings also indicated low concentrations of trace elements in comparison to sedimentary phosphate deposits.

The geometry, thickness, and near-surface occurrence of certain phosphate layers were deemed potentially suitable for open-pit mining, pending further engineering and mine planning studies. Steeve Lavoie, First Phosphate's Chief Geologist, reviewed and approved the technical disclosure in the announcement. First Phosphate is a mineral exploration and development company aiming to establish a supply chain for lithium iron phosphate battery production in North America.