Natural Graphite Prices have varied based on supply and demand perceptions. Prices peaked in 2011-2012 due to speculation and concerns over shortages with the burgeoning Li-ion battery market, but were short-lived with Chinese product flooding the market. In 2017 China shut down and consolidated many mines and severely tightened environmental regulations. China is anticipated to become a net importer soon and keep the dwindling flake graphite product in-country for value-added markets with its transformative expansion of electric vehicles.

Flake Graphite Prices are dependent on size and quality or purity with the larger flake sizes and higher purity commanding higher prices.

Ruby Graphite preliminary analysis has demonstrated the ability to mill the ore to a valuable grade consisting of 40% large and jumbo sizes and 30% medium and fine sizes, all with purities of 97% graphitic carbon.

The ‘basket’ mix for this distribution of Ruby Graphite product is projected to be valued at $1,130/tonne at current prices.

Markets for Ruby Graphite will likely be distributed between three main sectors:

Large and jumbo flake sizes are destined for the base market of refractories and other high-temperature uses for steel-making, plus the growing expandable graphite market and for manufacturing other advanced materials such as graphene.

Medium and fine flake sizes will be feedstock for the rapidly-growing Li-ion battery market.

Super-fine material will find use in other markets including composites and recarborizers.