Focus Graphite Pilot Run Demonstrates Significant Increase in Large and Jumbo Flake Recovery at Lac Knife

Core Insights - Focus Graphite Inc. has successfully conducted a pilot beneficiation program for its Lac Knife project, achieving a large flake recovery of approximately 47% while meeting U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) standards [2][5][10] Group 1: Pilot Program Results - The pilot program, executed by American Energy Technologies Company (AETC), processed over 800 kilograms of Lac Knife graphite-bearing rock, resulting in a concentrate with 95.5% total graphite content (TGC) and a significant increase in coarse flake recovery from 33% to 47% [3][9] - The results indicate that the Lac Knife material exceeds U.S. Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) procurement specifications for natural graphite, aligning with the requirements for both defense-grade and battery-grade materials [5][10] Group 2: Market Positioning and Applications - The increase in large and jumbo flake recovery positions Lac Knife to supply high-margin specialty applications, particularly in aerospace, defense, and energy storage sectors, while also addressing the growing demand for environmentally friendly materials [9][11] - Focus Graphite aims to leverage its unique position to serve both the electric vehicle (EV) and stationary energy storage markets, as well as premium aerospace and defense markets, thereby reducing risk and expanding opportunities [10][11] Group 3: Strategic Importance - The pilot program results reinforce Lac Knife's capability to deliver both defense-grade and battery-grade materials at scale, which is critical for North America's supply chain of critical minerals [10][21] - The project is strategically important as it positions Focus Graphite to meet the anticipated demand for natural flake graphite, especially in light of recent export restrictions from China [8][9]