Avalon Rare Metals (TSX:AVL) provided an update on its separation rapids lithium project, located near Kenora Ontario. Its pilot plant at the project will be completed in the first quarter of 201

Avalon Rare Metals (TSX:AVL) provided an update on its separation rapids lithium project, located near Kenora Ontario. Its pilot plant at the project will be completed in the first quarter of 2016.
As quoted in the press release:

The 30 tonne bulk sample of crushed ore that was shipped this summer has arrived at its destination in Germany and process work is now underway.
Lithium chemicals process optimization work continues at the laboratories of the Saskatchewan Research Council (“SRC”) in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Laboratory test work performed earlier this year at SRC provided encouraging results with a battery-grade lithium carbonate (>99.5% pure) being readily produced. Progress is being made toward the production of an enhanced grade product with a target purity of 99.9%. The potential for production of high grade lithium hydroxide was also demonstrated previously and optimization of this flowsheet is currently in progress. These programs are being conducted under the direction of David Marsh, Senior Vice-President, Metallurgy and Technology Development