Question 1

How does assay data for Spodumene Lithium differ from chemical specs for fabricated metal?

Accepted Answer

Spodumene Lithium value depends on the lithium oxide percentage found in the assay report. A buyer must check if the seller provides a recent assay from a recognized laboratory, as the marketable content varies wildly between grades. In contrast, fabricated metal products rely on mill certificates that confirm alloy composition and mechanical properties like tensile strength. The assay proves chemical value, while the mill cert proves physical performance. Without these documents, the listing is just a name with no verifiable value.

Question 2

What packing difference matters most for Monazite sand versus fabricated steel?

Accepted Answer

Monazite sand requires moisture-proof lining because it is a fine powder that can cake or lose weight during transit. The packing must prevent contamination and maintain flowability for downstream processing. Fabricated steel, however, needs rust prevention and secure strapping to handle heavy loads without deformation. The inspection focus for sand is purity and moisture content, while steel inspection checks for surface defects and dimensional accuracy. Confusing these packing standards leads to damaged goods or rejected loads.

Question 3

Why is Ilmenite Ore hard to quote without specific gravity data?

Accepted Answer

Ilmenite Ore is sold by weight, but its value depends on the titanium dioxide content. Specific gravity helps determine if the ore is dense and rich or light and waste rock. Without this data, a buyer cannot calculate the true landed cost per unit of titanium. The listing must state the expected density range or provide a recent sample analysis. Assuming standard density leads to significant cost miscalculations when the actual ore is lighter or heavier than expected.

Question 4

What documentation does Nigeria issue for mineral exports that differs from metal products?

Accepted Answer

Nigeria issues specific export permits for minerals that track the raw material from the mine to the port. These documents verify that the extraction was legal and that royalties are paid. Metal products often require different certificates, such as mill test reports or quality inspection tags, rather than mineral export permits. The paperwork chain for minerals is stricter due to regulatory oversight of raw extraction. Buyers must ensure the seller can provide the full chain of custody documents for the mineral batch.

Question 5

How do you verify the grade of Beryllium ore before ordering?

Accepted Answer

Beryllium ore value is tied to the beryllium oxide percentage in the concentrate. You must request a detailed assay report from an independent lab, not just the seller's internal test. The report should list the exact chemical composition and impurity levels that affect processing. Without this assay, the grade is unknown and the price is a guess. The assay is the only reliable way to confirm if the ore meets your metallurgical requirements.

Question 6

What goes wrong if I source Lead Zinc Ore under Metal & Metal Products?

Accepted Answer

Lead Zinc Ore is a raw concentrate that requires smelting, not a fabricated metal product. Listing it under fabricated goods confuses the trade because the specifications are completely different. Raw ore needs assay data and bulk packing details, while fabricated metals need dimensions and tolerances. Sourcing ore in the wrong branch leads to receiving quotes for finished bars or sheets instead of raw material. Always start in Ores and Minerals for raw concentrates to find the correct suppliers.

Question 7

How does packing for Beryllium ore differ from Ilmenite Ore?

Accepted Answer

Beryllium ore often requires specialized handling due to toxicity, with packing that prevents dust release and contamination. The bags or containers must be sealed and labeled according to hazardous material guidelines. Ilmenite Ore is less hazardous but still requires moisture protection to maintain quality. The packing for beryllium is stricter and more expensive due to safety regulations. Buyers must confirm the packing type and safety data sheets before agreeing to terms for beryllium shipments.

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