Lode Resources Ltd (ASX: LDR) has received highly encouraging results from preliminary flotation testwork carried out on mineralisation intersected in drill hole TGY003 at Trough Gully in New South Wales, Australia.
The purpose of the preliminary metallurgical test programme was to determine initial flotation recoveries of the main metals of economic interest. A representative composite bulk sample consisting of 8.80 metres (from 49.0m) of quartered drill core TGY003 was submitted to ALS Metallurgical Services in Perth for initial bench top flotation testwork. The parameters of initial test work included grind size of 80% passing 75 µm 30-35% solids pulp density and four-stage rougher stage flotation using standard reagents producing a bulk concentrate.
Cumulative recoveries at stage 4 were up to 97.5% for Zinc, 98.8% for Copper, 97.2% for Gold and 98.8% for Silver. These are outstanding numbers in Lode’s view, said Managing Director, Ted Leschke.
This preliminary flotation testwork produced a single product bulk concentrate containing both sphalerite, chalcopyrite, gold and silver minerals, in addition to pyrite which wasn’t depressed in this initial test.
Mr Leschke said it is highly likely that separate concentrate products would be produced using the same process but with the main minerals of interest separated sequentially using specific reagents for each mineral. This would normally result in a slight reduction in the overall metal recoveries but an increase in metal payability and reduction in charges.
“We are highly encouraged by the preliminary metallurgical test work on Trough Gully mineralisation as well as the high-grade drill results in initial drilling. Whilst there is much work to be done, high metal recoveries, high-grade mineralisation and strong metal prices is the trifecta aspiration of every exploration company,” Mr Leschke said.
Significant, previously under-recognized zinc mineralisation indicates the mineral potential of Trough Gully and the Webbs Consol Base Metal Projects may have been highly underestimated.
DHEM and FLEM surveys to test for mineralisation extensions at Trough Gully Project to commence in May, ahead of Phase II drilling.
The Fender Copper Project, includes the Trough Gully Mine as well as two large copper drainage anomalies ‘Kasey’ (7km x 3km) and ‘Fold’ (4km x 2km).
For further information please visit: https://loderesources.com/
