QMines (ASX:QML) has obtained impressive PFS level metallurgical testwork results for the Mt Chalmers copper and gold deposit in Queensland.
Highlights:
- PFS level metallurgical testwork for the Mt Chalmers copper and gold deposit is now complete.
- Combined flotation and leaching achieves industry leading recoveries of 99.7% copper, 88.6% gold, 97.5% lead, 97.5% zinc and 97.9% silver.
- Simple flotation of a master composite (Stringer/Massive Sulphide blend) also achieves outstanding recoveries of 95% copper, 78% gold, 85% silver, 70% lead and 70% zinc.
- The testwork also achieves substantial environmental outcomes including a simple floatation option that provides potential for cyanide free processing whilst reducing CAPEX.
- The results will now be used to optimise the flow sheet and plant design for the planned Pre-Feasibility Study due in Q4-2023.
- The final PFS level metallurgical testwork will now be used to progress the planned Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) on the Mt Chalmers deposit and deliver a maiden Ore Reserve statement.
In late 2022, QMines engaged Como to supervise a testwork programme with the objective of defining a metallurgical strategy for recovery of copper, gold, silver, lead and zinc from Mt Chalmers.
QMines shipped drill core to ALS Laboratory from drill hole MCDD017 together with new material from drillhole MCDD044, as the former material becomes depleted.
The deliverables of the testwork were to define the physical, mineralogical and metallurgical parameters of the mineralization in order to develop a practical mineral dressing flowsheet for production of saleable concentrates of copper, gold, silver and zinc.
“We are very pleased with these metallurgical results from Mt Chalmers. This work demonstrates high recoveries of all target metals from a simple flotation process,” Managing Director, Andrew Sparke, said.
“We are equally pleased with the strong environmental outcomes this work achieves. The potential for cyanide free processing, re-use of pit water and a reduction in power consumption due to coarser grind size all add to the company’s strong environmental focus and credentials.
“QMines is now optimizing the flow sheet and plant design for Mt Chalmers for inclusion in a Pre-Feasibility study due out in Q4 2023.”
For further information please visit: https://qmines.com.au/
