The results validate mineralisation models used in generating the Goongarrie South Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE). Pits at Goongarrie South will be the key base load feed source for the proposed nickel-cobalt processing plant at the
The drilling program was designed to generate run-of-mine mineralisation for bench-scale metallurgical programs currently in train at the ALS Balcatta metallurgical laboratories, as an initial program for the planned KNP Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS). Additionally, selected drill holes were extended beneath the nickel laterite to test conceptual shear-hosted gold targets within bedrock.
The Goongarrie laterite has uniform gold anomalism, and is associated with a fertile gold structure being the
Ardea Managing Director,
In terms of Mineralised Neutraliser, the neutraliser appears to be a sheet along the sides and below the AL feed. In a production situation, this material will be mined from the batters in pits extending to around 100m in vertical depth. With the unique Goongarrie geological model yet again confirmed, we continue to await the results of the ALS benchscale metallurgy from Highway, as a control for the waiting Goongarrie program. These results will feed into ongoing DFS work flows and continue to enhance the KNP Goongarrie Hub as a globally significant source of sustainable and ethical nickel-cobalt for the lithium ion battery sector.
METALLURGICAL DRILLING INTERCEPT SUMMARY
The drilling program was predicated on acquiring presentative 'Run-of-Mine' (ROM) Material Types for the current ALS Balcatta bench-scale metallurgical program. In particular, high-magnesium Atmospheric Leach and Neutraliser Material Types were targeted. These specific geometallurgical Material Types are integral to the KNP flowsheet, specifically the low-carbon objective. These Material Types are largely lacking in historic bench-scale metallurgy. The DD program has confirmed a consistent sheet geometry for the ROM mineralisation and is eminently suited to open pit bulk excavation. With the deeper testing of the core drilling program, zones of a distinctive cave-fill style of clay mineralisation within saprock was identified, sometimes with very high nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co) grade. As cave-fill, such zones can be variable and not always correlate between adjoining holes. However, in selective mining, the high-grade goethite clay will be easily recovered through visual grade control
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