Special Report: Test work of Mt Kokeby ore continues to return excellent results for Red Mountain with an optimum result of 96 per cent recoveries for a 37 per cent alumina product.

The evidence continues to mount for the DSO potential of Red Mountain Mining’s (ASX:RMX) Mt Kokeby kaolin project in Western Australia with the latest test work indicating that recoveries of more than 96 per cent are achievable.

DSO refers to “direct shipping ore” – namely, minerals that require only minimal processing such as crushing before they are exported, which keeps costs low.

Red Mountain noted that attritioning tests carried out to optimise both the alumina grade and recovery to finer size fractions had an optimal result of over 96.8 per cent recovery for a product with more than 37.5 per cent aluminium oxide (Al2O3) content that reports to a size of 53 microns.

This improves on previous testing at the 75-micron mesh size, which achieved alumina recoveries ranging from 87.8 to 99.4 per cent at an average grade of 36.9 per cent Al2O3.

Metallurgical test work is being carried out by Perth’s Independent Metallurgical Operations (IMO) to assess the characteristics of Mt Kokeby ore.

Attritioner test providing optimal results for high Al2O3 grade and recovery Pic: Red Mountain

With the completion of attrition testwork, IMO will now assess the ore’s amenability to a hydrochloric acid leach process for the production of high purity alumina, which is used for lithium-ion battery components, LED lights, smart phone screens, and surgical tools.

Additionally, Red Mountain plans to carry out a due diligence drilling program in early 2020 once a drill rig is secured.

This will test some historical drill results as well as test for the continuation of the kaolin beds.

It will be followed by a larger drilling program aimed at generating an initial resource for Mt Kokeby.

The 84sqkm Mt Kokeby project is just 99km southeast of Perth and is close to rail and all-weather roads.

Now read:
DSO outlook brightens for Red Mountain kaolin project
New Kids on the Block: Do these kaolin explorers have the right stuff?

 

 

This story was developed in collaboration with Red Mountain Mining, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

This story does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.