Not specifically related to ZEN, or graphite; yet for producing high-purity graphite products for end-users, the challenges are the same.

Here is a study presented to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources. Very interesting read about industry lobbying the house for the neccessary government support for processing REEs. *Nice to see the $500K provided to ZEN for metallurgy and the process flow sheet.

http://www.miningwatch.ca/sites/www.miningwatch.ca/files/rareearthelements-summary-e.pdf

Another interesting website is the Canada Rare Earth Elements Network (CREEN). Good overview of the industry and pressures.

http://www.cim.org/en/RareEarth/Home/AboutUs.aspx

A quote from Luisa Morena (EuroPac Analysts, REEs) on the home page:

"Rare earth elements are a crucial component of our everyday lives, but many of the companies unearthing them are still learning to navigate the supply chain. Those that can master the dance of metallurgy and end-user relationships will find success."

— Ms. Luisa Moreno, Senior Research Analyst, Euro Pacific (Toronto), April 2013

This quote is very true, and explains a lot of why ZEN's SP is where it is at today. They are learning and trying to master the dance.

Just a lazy sunday digging around the internet.