To confirm the commercial viability of a lithium project like...

To confirm the commercial viability of a lithium project like Raiden Resources' Andover South, the following criteria must be met:Key Indicators of Commercial ViabilityGrade of Lithium (Li₂O Content):A typical benchmark for high-grade lithium deposits is 1.0% Li₂O or higher. World-class deposits, such as Pilbara Minerals' Pilgangoora (1.27% Li₂O) and Core Lithium's Finniss Project (1.3-1.5% Li₂O), set the standard【22†source】【23†source】.Initial results from Raiden suggest visible spodumene, but assay data is required to determine the exact lithium content.Resource Size:The size of the deposit must be sufficient to support sustained mining operations. For example, Pilgangoora has a resource size of over 300 million tonnes, while smaller projects may still be viable with grades above the benchmark.Metallurgical Recovery:A high recovery rate for lithium during processing is critical. Spodumene is a preferred lithium mineral due to its established processing pathways and high recovery potential.Economic Factors:The project's location near infrastructure and low-cost logistics improves feasibility. Andover South benefits from its proximity to Pilbara's mining infrastructure【21†source】【22†source】.Indicators from Raiden’s Previous AnnouncementsVisible Spodumene in Core:Raiden’s confirmation of spodumene in drill core aligns with early indicators of mineralization seen in successful projects. However, without assay results, the grade and tonnage remain speculative【22†source】【23†source】.Surface Samplesrior surface sampling revealed anomalous lithium levels, providing a foundation for targeted drilling. However, these surface anomalies need confirmation through subsurface assays to establish continuity and grade【23†source】.Exploration Upside:The identification of multiple pegmatite targets suggests potential for further discoveries, enhancing the project's scale and value【22†source】.Next Steps and ExpectationsRaiden will need to deliver:Assay Results: Grades above 1.0% Li₂O across significant widths would be a positive confirmation.Resource Definition: Indicating a deposit large enough to support a commercial operation.Economic Assessments: Including infrastructure, recovery rates, and mining costs.Investment ImplicationUntil Raiden releases assay results and a maiden resource estimate, the project remains speculative. Investors should watch for updates that quantify lithium grades and resource size, which are essential for validating commercial viability.