QMines (ASX: QML) has revealed the final results from its recent metallurgical test work program for its Mt Chalmers copper and gold project in Queensland.
The test work, conducted at a pre-feasibility study level, resulted in combined float and leaching returns at 99.7% copper, 88.6% gold, 97.5% lead, 97.5% zinc and 97.9% silver.
Meanwhile, simple flotation also achieved good returns: 95% copper, 78% gold, 85% silver, and 70% with both lead and zinc.
The Mt Chalmers gold and copper project is located 17km northeast of Rockhampton.
Cyanide-free processing, lower power consumption
The company says the test work confirms that simple flotation provides potential for cyanide-free processing, while reducing the forecast capital outlays.
Moreover, the establishment of a pyrite concentrate significantly reduces acid forming minerals in tailing.
On top of that, a coarser grind size “significantly” reduces power consumption, carbon footprint and operating expenses.
To add another improvement to the company’s environmental story, its use of pit water for processing, cuts water usage and discharge from the mine site.
Strong environmental outcomes
QMines managing director Andrew Sparke said the company is now optimising the flow sheet and plant design for Mt Chalmers to be included in a pre-feasibility study that is due out in the December quarter.
He describes the test work results as pleasing.
“We are equally pleased with the strong environmental outcomes this work achieves.
“The potential for cyanide-free processing, the 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,” he added.
Two mineralised styles
The Mt Chalmers project contains a near surface copper-gold-silver deposit with low quantities of lead and zinc.
QMines’ plan is to first develop an open pit, followed by an underground operation which will take place late in the life of the mine.
The proposed pit at Mt Chalmers provide access to two mineralisation styles — volcanic hosted massive sulphide (gold, copper, lead, zinc and silver) and stringer (copper and low-grade gold and silver).
