Lotus Resources Ltd (ASX:LOT) (OTCMKTS:LTSRF) has begun ore sorting test-work on ore from Kayelekera Uranium Project in Malawi with strong initial results revealing the potential to improve project economics.
The test-work is underway on 500 kilograms of run of mine ore and this is taking place at STEINERT’s testing facility in Perth, Australia.
“Encouraged by preliminary results”
Managing director Keith Bowes said: “When Kayelekera was last in production, ore sorting in the mining industry was in its infancy.
“Since then, the technology has advanced significantly with far greater scope and a wider range of applications through improved detectors and faster data processing, which makes the technology more suitable to higher throughput applications seen in the mining industry.
“Whilst trial work has only recently commenced, we are very encouraged by preliminary results, which show the ore is clearly amenable to the technology.
“We will continue to provide additional information on this trial work over the coming months.”
Ore-sorting benefits
Ore-sorting technology has evolved over the past decade and was not available when Kayelekera was previously in production.
Whilst not essential for the project to recommence production, positive results could deliver the following benefits:
- Reduction in operation costs – rejecting high acid consuming gangue minerals;
- Increase in annual production – increased feed grade to the plant; and
- Extension of mine life – low-grade stockpile material (<400ppm U3O8) previously marginally economic can potentially be processed at the end of the current mine life ><400ppm U3O8) previously marginally economic can potentially be processed at the end of the current mine life.
Data used to determine upgrade ratios
Lotus believes the initial results are highly encouraging with visual differences easily seen between the product and reject stream.
The samples generated from this initial program have been submitted for assay and leaching test-work.
This data will be used to determine the upgrade ratios and recoveries for the process which can then be used to further optimise the ore sorting process.
Testwork will continue over the coming months with results to be incorporated in the feasibility study.