Pinnacle Silver & Gold Corp (TSX-V:PINN, OTCQB:NRGOF) CEO Robert Archer talked with Proactive about the encouraging metallurgical test results from the company’s El Potrero project in Mexico.
Archer explained that metallurgical testing is vital to any mining project as it directly influences the project's economics. He emphasized that conducting these tests early on can help avoid costly surprises later. “For a very first test, you know, to get numbers in the mid 90s, recovery for gold. That's extremely encouraging.”
The initial results for gold showed recoveries in the mid-90% range, which Archer noted likely won’t require much optimization. Even with further refinement, the company believes recoveries could improve further.
On the silver side, Archer acknowledged the initial results were lower, which is expected given the complex nature of silver leaching. He noted the company would carry out more detailed studies to improve those recoveries.
The company collected three samples from the Pinos Cuates mine, the central of three gold mines on the property. These samples showed some variability, highlighting the need for broader sampling across the remaining two mines. All this work is feeding into larger-scale metallurgical testing planned before plant reconstruction.
Archer also confirmed other ongoing site activities including mapping, sampling, and infrastructure discussions, such as extending a power line to the property.