What's Happening?
Elementos, an Australian mining company, has significantly increased the tungsten grades at its Cleveland Project in Tasmania by 410% using x-ray transmission (XRT) ore sorting testwork. The process, conducted at the TOMRA Sorting Solutions Facility,
involved samples from drillhole C2124A, which were split into two bulk samples. The ore sorting process produced a high-grade output in the first pass, with a second pass acting as a scavenger on waste. Managing Director Joe David highlighted the potential to enhance the project's tungsten resources and plant feed grades, especially as tungsten prices have surged above US$61,500 per tonne. The company is re-evaluating mineral resources and plans to conduct further metallurgical testwork to assess the economic potential of the project.
Why It's Important?
The increase in tungsten grades at the Cleveland Project is significant for Elementos as it positions the company to capitalize on the rising demand and prices for tungsten, a critical mineral. This development could enhance the project's economic viability and attract further investment. The successful implementation of XRT ore sorting technology demonstrates a potential shift in mining practices, emphasizing efficiency and resource optimization. As tungsten is essential for various industrial applications, including electronics and aerospace, the project's success could have broader implications for these sectors, potentially influencing supply chains and market dynamics.
What's Next?
Elementos plans to continue evaluating the co-mineralized critical minerals alongside tungsten and proceed with metallurgical testwork. These efforts aim to provide comprehensive data to assess the project's true economic potential. The company may explore further optimization of the ore sorting process and consider different grade options for future studies. Stakeholders, including investors and industry partners, will likely monitor these developments closely, as they could impact strategic decisions and partnerships within the mining sector.
Beyond the Headlines
The advancements in ore sorting technology at the Cleveland Project could set a precedent for other mining operations seeking to improve resource recovery and efficiency. This approach aligns with broader industry trends towards sustainable and cost-effective mining practices. Additionally, the focus on critical minerals like tungsten underscores the growing importance of securing reliable sources for these materials, which are vital for technological innovation and national security.
