For graphite, 2011 was a year of exploration, investment, and media attention. The refractory mineral was thrust into the spotlight as juniors from every corner of the world announced their intention to develop graphite projects – and largely, with a few exceptions, for new technology markets.
Exploration, exploration, exploration
In January Melbourne-based Strategic Energy Resources (SER) commenced drilling at Uley’s Main Road graphite deposit on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia. The deposit made the news again in May, when Mega Graphite Inc. announced it would purchase the Uley deposit from Strategic Energy Resources (SER), finalising the deal in August.
The two companies revealed they would begin shipping graphite from the Uley mine by the end of 2011 or start of 2012. Uley, which is located in Sleaford, South Australia, was closed in 1993. About 8,000 tonnes of graphite has already been mined and will be...