Amur Minerals PLC (LON:AMC) updated on progress on key work for its definitive feasibility study for the giant Kun-Manie nickel project in Russia, including that it had shortlisted potential engineers for the design of the mine and plant.
The firm aims to complete the milestone DFS by the end of 2017.
Chief executive Robin Young said: "There is a great deal more to be accomplished over the next 18 months and we plan to issue updates on the global progress toward its completion, as well as any key developments generated during the completion of this milestone document."
Among the detail is that a large scale bulk metallurgical sample from this season's 15,000m drill programme will be used to define a process flow sheet, and help with the design of the smelter.
Finalising the mining reserves, based on metallurgical work and preliminary operating costs, will be started in the near term, the firm added.
Kun-Manie can sustain 15 years of operations at an annual mining rate of 5 million tonnes of ore for the production of polymetallic concentrate.
Mining is planned at four open pits and two (possibly three) underground operations.