South Star Mining Corp. Announces an Additional Five-Year Offtake Agreement and Conversion of Convertible Debt

(TheNewswire)

Toronto, ON TheNewswire - May 12, 2021 South Star Mining Corp. ( "South Star " or "the Company" ) (TSXV: STS ) (OTC:STSBF) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding ("Agreement") for 20,000 tonnes of natural flake graphite concentrate over a period of five years for the Santa Cruz Graphite Project ("Project"). The strategic offtake was signed on May 10 th 2021 with a United States industrial specialist ("Partner") in high-quality graphite including coated spherical purified graphite (CSPG), downstream processing and marketing. Terms and conditions of the Agreement are confidential for competitive market conditions.

Richard Pearce, President and CEO of South Star, commented: "With this latest offtake agreement we have the majority of our production sold for the Phase 1 operations and a great start on Phase 2 operations. The tonnages associated with this agreement will mainly be processed into CSPG for the growing lithium-ion battery (LiB) markets. The recent offtake agreements reinforce the high-quality nature of the deposit that create value for our Partners and ensure that the future of Santa Cruz is very bright with a diversified product line across a broad array of market sectors. I also think the recent agreements reinforce the phased approach to production, which underscores risk management and effective allocation of capital. This is another important achievement in moving the Project from development into production in 2022 and then scaling it up for Phase 2 operations. Once again, we look forward to developing a long-term relationship with our Partners, and we are excited about having a strong presence in the LiB market and the electrification revolution. We are quickly building this Company into the first new operation in continuous commercial production in the Americas in more than a decade."

Convertible Debt

The Company is also announcing the retirement and conversion of 100% of the Convertible Debenture (May 6, 2020 Press Release). Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreement, 5.6M common shares have been issued along with 5.6M warrants for the aggregate gross proceeds of C$280,000. With the conversion of the debenture, South Star is now debt free.

About South Star Mining Corp.

South Star Mining Corp. is focused on the selective acquisition and development of near-term production projects in Brazil. South Star is driven to create fundamental value in the battery metals sector for clients and investors with real projects that have strong intrinsic financial and operating metrics, and that can be profitable throughout the resource cycle. South Star has an experienced executive team with a strong history of discovering, developing, building and operating profitable mines in Brazil.

The Santa Cruz Graphite Project, located in Southern Bahia, is the first of a series of battery metals projects that will be put into production. Brazil is the second-largest graphite-producing region in the world with more than 80 years of continuous mining. The Project has at-surface mineralization in friable materials, and successful large-scale pilot-plant testing (>30t) has been completed. The results of the testing show that approximately 65% of Cg concentrate is +80 mesh with good recoveries and 95-99% Cg. With excellent infrastructure and logistics, South Star is carrying its development plan towards Phase 1 production projected in Q4 2022, pending financing.

The Santa Cruz project is being developed in a phased approach. Phase 1 operations for the 5,000 tpy pilot plant operations are fully licensed, and the Company is preparing to start construction in September 2021 with commercial production targeted for Q4 2022. Phase 2 operations will represent a larger scale concentration plant currently planned to produce between 25,000 to 30,000 tpy of concentrate. The sizing of Phase 2 plant could be increased depending on the successes of the Phase 1 operations, ongoing development of commercial relationships, and market conditions.

South Star is committed to a corporate culture, project execution plan and safe operations that embrace the highest standards of ESG principles based on transparency, stakeholder engagement, ongoing education and stewardship. To learn more, please visit the Company website at https://www.southstarmining.ca .

This news release has been reviewed and approved by Richard Pearce, P.E., a "Qualified Person" under National Instrument 43-101 and President and CEO of South Star Mining.

On behalf of the Board,

Mr. Richard Pearce

Chief Executive Officer

For additional information, please contact:

CHF Capital Markets

Cathy Hume, CEO

Phone: 416-868-1079 x251

Email: cathy@chfir.com

Mr. Dave McMillan

Chairman

Email: davemc@telus.net

Twitter: https://twitter.com/southstarmining

Facebook:

LinkedIn:

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

This news release and the Updated Technical Report contain references to inferred resources. The Report is preliminary in nature and includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves.

Forward-Looking Information

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements".

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

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South Star Battery Metals TSXV:STS Graphite Investing

VIDEO: Altech Batteries Ltd Silumina Anodes Project DFS Expands Output 8-Fold to 120GWh

Perth, Australia (ABN Newswire) - Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) is pleased to announce that during the finalisation of the Silumina Anodes TM project Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS), Altech has managed to expand the project's output by eightfold, increasing the capacity from 15 gigawatt-hours (GWh) to 120 GWh, with no change to plant and equipment. This significant expansion will effectively cater to the long-term demand for silicon-type anodes within the industry.

Initially, as per the original DFS scope, Altech had proposed the production of 10,000 tons per annum (tpa) of Silumina Anodes TM product, comprising 1,000 tpa of high-purity alumina-coated metallurgical silicon incorporated into 9,000 tpa of similarly coated graphite (10% mix). The plant will now focus on solely producing alumina-coated metallurgical silicon product at a rate of 8,000 tpa. This product will be integrated into the graphite by the customers within their battery plants rather than at Altech's facility.

As a result of this increased production of the 'active' component, the output has expanded by a significant eightfold, rising from 15 GWh to 120 GWh.

According to feedback from potential customers, utilising their existing qualified graphite source is a priority.

Furthermore, although there is a marginal advantage in using alumina-coated graphite, the primary appeal for potential customers lies in integrating Altech-coated silicon into their battery products. Despite initial considerations regarding the benefits of coating graphite with alumina, such as the reduction of first-cycle loss, Altech's research has demonstrated that the cost-to-reward ratio for graphite is relatively minimal.

This recent adjustment to "all silicon" is expected to yield substantial improvements in the bottom-line economics. The most notable advantage lies in the ability to crack the silicon code, preventing expansion defragmentation, as well as curbing the significant first-cycle loss associated with silicon.
Battery manufacturers have the choice to either produce batteries with higher energy density or maintain their current energy density while reducing the graphite content. By decreasing the use of graphite, the cost of producing batteries can be reduced. However, the recent news about China, which accounts for approximately 90% of the global production of lithium-ion battery graphite, imposing limitations on the worldwide export of graphite, has begun to create challenges for battery manufacturers in Europe and the USA.

Altech is currently in talks with Ferroglobe, the European silicon partner of Altech, to boost the supply of metallurgical silicon for the enhanced Silumina Anodes TM project. Moreover, the Company has executed non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with prominent automotive conglomerates in Europe and the United States, who have shown keen interest in acquiring commercial samples for their testing and qualification procedures. Considering the limited production capacity of Altech's R&D laboratory in Perth, the larger samples will be procured from the Silumina Anodes TM Pilot Plant in Saxony. The Pilot Plant is nearing completion and is expected to be operational in the early part of the upcoming year.

Managing Director Iggy Tan emphasised that the substantial increase in Silumina Anodes TM output by eightfold, achieved without significant changes in the plant or capital costs, represents a notable advancement in Altech's business strategy. Mr Tan highlighted the increasing demand in the lithium-ion battery industry for higher-density batteries, emphasising the necessity to reduce reliance on graphite, particularly in light of the export restrictions imposed by China. Mr Tan expressed confidence that the incorporation of Altech's alumina-coated silicon would assist battery customers in addressing these concerns. Mr Tan further conveyed his enthusiasm regarding the enhanced business model, indicating a positive outlook for the company's future endeavours.

To Watch the Video, please visit:
https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/V1264337

About Altech Batteries Ltd:

Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) is a specialty battery technology company that has a joint venture agreement with world leading German battery institute Fraunhofer IKTS ("Fraunhofer") to commercialise the revolutionary CERENERGY(R) Sodium Alumina Solid State (SAS) Battery. CERENERGY(R) batteries are the game-changing alternative to lithium-ion batteries. CERENERGY(R) batteries are fire and explosion-proof; have a life span of more than 15 years and operate in extreme cold and desert climates. The battery technology uses table salt and is lithium-free; cobalt-free; graphite-free; and copper-free, eliminating exposure to critical metal price rises and supply chain concerns.

The joint venture is commercialising its CERENERGY(R) battery, with plans to construct a 100MWh production facility on Altech's land in Saxony, Germany. The facility intends to produce CERENERGY(R) battery modules to provide grid storage solutions to the market.

News Provided by ABN Newswire via QuoteMedia

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What is Synthetic Graphite? (Updated 2023)

Synthetic graphite is a unique material often used in metal fabrication and devices like batteries and solar panels.

The material is composed of high-purity carbon and is known for its ability to withstand high temperatures and corrosion. Those points make it a great option for highly specialized industries that need predictable results from their carbon materials.

Understanding the difference between synthetic and natural graphite is important for investors, as industries typically need a specific type of graphite for their applications. Here’s a look at the synthetic graphite market and what it has to offer.

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Altech Batteries Ltd CERENERGY Battery Project Upgraded to 120MWh

Perth, Australia (ABN Newswire) - Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) is pleased to announce that, after the final stages of facility design, the Company has successfully increased the output capacity of the CERENERGY(R) project from 100 MWh to 120 MWh per annum. This enhancement was achieved with the lead engineering company Leadec and joint venture partner Fraunhofer.

Through technical design optimisation, the plant output has been enhanced by 20% without incurring any additional capital costs. Consequently, the annual output will now reach 120 1MWh GridPacks. Despite the relatively small size of the plant, most equipment sizes were standard off-the-shelf capacities, offering ample additional capacity. Upon reviewing the equipment throughput with each supplier, Leadec has advised that the rated output of the plant can be conservatively increased to 120 MWh.

In a recent announcement, Altech revealed the updated design of the 60 KWh battery pack, now featuring a sleek stainless-steel exterior instead of the previous blue paint. This modification has instilled a greater sense of confidence, as the stainless-steel finish is expected to withstand extreme temperature variations better, whether in snowy or desert conditions, whilst maintaining its pristine appearance.

A significant design update involves the stacking method of the 1MWh GridPacks. The enhanced design now permits triple stacking and facilitates seamless interconnection between each GridPack. These GridPacks can be conveniently stacked atop one another, using a simple electrical connection. The connection leads will be incorporated within the GridPack frames, enabling an effortless "plug and play" setup. This configuration allows for the parallel or series connection of GridPacks to augment the operational voltage. This ingenious design substantially minimises the space occupied by grid storage battery packs and eliminates the necessity for separate cooling airflow around the GridPacks, conserving valuable land area. These advantages position the CERENERGY(R) GridPacks as a more advanced alternative to lithium-ion battery solutions.

Group Managing Director Iggy Tan commented on the DFS upgrade to 120 MWh annually. "From the beginning, we recognised a considerable margin built into the different equipment designs. Initially, our approach to facility design was quite conservative. However, as we've progressed in finalising the overall equipment operations, it has become evident that we possess the capability to increase our production rate.

We are currently in the final stages of the DFS, where we are meticulously reviewing all cost factors, including operating consumables and purchased items" he said.

To view the Interview with Iggy Tan, please visit:
https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/X0Q26B1K

About Altech Batteries Ltd:

Altech Batteries Limited (ASX:ATC) (FRA:A3Y) is a specialty battery technology company that has a joint venture agreement with world leading German battery institute Fraunhofer IKTS ("Fraunhofer") to commercialise the revolutionary CERENERGY(R) Sodium Alumina Solid State (SAS) Battery. CERENERGY(R) batteries are the game-changing alternative to lithium-ion batteries. CERENERGY(R) batteries are fire and explosion-proof; have a life span of more than 15 years and operate in extreme cold and desert climates. The battery technology uses table salt and is lithium-free; cobalt-free; graphite-free; and copper-free, eliminating exposure to critical metal price rises and supply chain concerns.

The joint venture is commercialising its CERENERGY(R) battery, with plans to construct a 100MWh production facility on Altech's land in Saxony, Germany. The facility intends to produce CERENERGY(R) battery modules to provide grid storage solutions to the market.

News Provided by ABN Newswire via QuoteMedia

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Altech – Cerenergy® Battery Project Upgraded DFS Output to 120 MWh Per Annum

Altech Batteries Limited (Altech/the Company) (ASX: ATC and FRA: A3Y) is pleased to announce that, after the final stages of facility design, the Company has successfully increased the output capacity of the CERENERGY® project from 100 MWh to 120 MWh per annum. This enhancement was achieved with the lead engineering company Leadec and joint venture partner Fraunhofer. Interview with Managing Director, Iggy Tan can be found at https://youtu.be/bXTzcWsz5_Y

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South Star Mining Corp. Announces an Additional Five-Year Offtake Agreement and Conversion of Convertible Debt

South Star Battery Metals Investor Kit

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Overview

Company Highlights

Key Project

Santa Cruz Graphite Project

Alabama Graphite Project

Management Team

Richard Pearce - CEO and Director

Marc Leduc - Chairman

Bennett Liu - CFO

Eric Allison - Executive Director

Daniel Wilton - Independent Director

Key Team Members - Santa Cruz Graphite Mine Phased Construction and Operations

Julio Jose Da Silva - General Mine Manager

Marcia Cota - Controller and Finance Manager

Antonio de Assis - Sales and Marketing Director

Marcelo Castro - Construction Project Manager

Luciano Lazaro - Supply Chain and Procurement Manager

Overview

NextSource Materials: Molo Graphite Mine now in Production with Downstream Battery Anode Facility Not Far Behind

Company Highlights

Key Projects

Molo Graphite Project

Green Giant Vanadium Project

Management Team

Brent Nykoliation — Executive Vice-president

Marc Johnson — Chief Financial Officer

Danniel Stokes - VP, Special Projects

Markus Reichardt - VP, Sustainability

Wilhelm Reitz - General Manager, Molo Mine

Lydia Boarlaza - Country Manager, NextSource Materials

Board of Directors

Sir Mick Davis — Chairman

Ian Pearce – Director

Craig Scherba — Director, President & Chief Executive Officer

Robin Borley — Chief Operating Officer and Director

Brett Whalen — Director

Christopher Kruba — Director

Springdale is now Australia's second largest known graphite deposit.

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