QMines Ltd (ASX:QML) has confirmed high copper recoveries with "significant" gold credits in updated metallurgical test-work on the stringer zone within the flagship Mt Chalmers copper and gold project near Rockhampton in Queensland.
The test-work was designed to maximise gold recovery whilst achieving a grind and reagent regime suitable to produce a clean copper concentrate containing gold and silver.
It achieved 23% copper in concentrate at 98% recovery, with "significant" gold credits of 8 g/t gold.
Looking ahead, further work in intermediate grinds, optimised reagents and blends continues as QMines progresses a feasibility study on the Mt Chalmers deposit and works to deliver a maiden ore reserve statement.
“Maximise recoveries”
QMines managing director Andrew Sparke said: “We are very pleased with the updated metallurgical results.
“This work demonstrates further improvement to the work completed in 2022 with high copper recoveries and significant gold credits as well as a separate zinc product that can maximise recoveries of all metals.
“The coarser grind size shows potential for higher processing throughputs, reduced energy usage, lower processing costs and therefore a reduced carbon footprint.”
Marketable product
QML’s updated test-work on grind size and laboratory flotation method has produced considerably better grades including 23% copper in concentrate with 98% recovery.
Each of the tests produced a potentially marketable copper product with significant gold credits.
The lead, zinc and silver grades in the stringer composite were low and were thus excluded from the flowsheet to simplify the circuit.
Forward plan
The next steps at the Mt Chalmers deposit include:
- final metallurgical test-work results for the Mt Chalmers deposit;
- delivery of the results of a recent carbon audit to meet the requirements of the Climate Active program and retain a zero-carbon certification;
- complete the planned pre-feasibility study on the Mt Chalmers project assessing the potential for a stand-alone mining operation;
- interpretation of the recently completed VTEM™ Max airborne electromagnetic survey allowing the analysis and ranking of targets; and
- commence drilling prospective regional targets.