‘Highly encouraging’ preliminary metallurgical results from Big One bulk samples support the copper project’s path to near-term production, according to New Frontier Minerals.
Stockpile material from the North-West Queensland site has proved a good match for Austral Resources Australia’s Mount Kelly processing facility (pictured).
NFM has a memorandum of understanding with Austral Resources to process ore from Big One, fast-tracking its pathway to production.
“These initial metallurgical results mark an exciting step forward in unlocking value from the Big One deposit,” New Frontier chairman Gerrard Hall said.
“Achieving theoretical potential recoveries of over 95 per cent in most samples using conventional acid leach methods reinforces the potential viability of the Big One deposit and our stockpile strategy to fast-track production.
“Importantly, these results support our partnership with Austral Resources and the processing optionality offered through their Mount Kelly facility.
“As we continue to progress mining approvals and expand metallurgical test work, we remain focused on advancing the Big One deposit into a potential near-term source of high-grade copper production.”
The tests involved 12 composite samples totaling about 200kg that NFM collected from three ex-mine stockpile sites at Big One – part of the company’s NWQ Copper Project.
The company submitted these for geochemical analysis and sequential metallurgical leach testing at ALS, Mount Isa.
Testing focused on determining the leachability of copper via sulphuric acid and cyanide reagents, simulating standard copper heap leach and vat leach processing options, the company said.
Sulphuric acid leach indicative recoveries ranged from 83 per cent to 99 per cent copper, confirming potential for conventional acid leach processing.
NFM said the compatibility demonstrated in the testwork materially reduced barriers to production and positioned the company to potentially capitalise on existing infrastructure, permitting channels and operational expertise.
“The ability to process legacy stockpile material as a potential starter operation enhances commercial flexibility while broader exploration and resource growth programs continue across the NWQ Copper Project,” it said.