Crusader Resources updates on progress at Borborema

Crusader Resources updated the market on the bankable feasibility study (BFS) metallurgical test work at its Borborema Gold Project on Monday, as Orway Mineral Consultants (OMC) evaluated comminution flowsheet options.

The AIM-traded firm said the evaluations suggested the Borborema ore was “amenable” to single-stage SAG milling, which would reduce upfront capital expenditure compared to the previous three stage crush / ball mill option.

It also said recommissioned test work on the Borborema resource confirmed the validity of a simple crush-grind-cyanidation processing circuit, to provide high gold extractions in excess of 90%.

As expected, heap leach and flotation options had been further evaluated and were shown not to be optimal.

Recent test work identified 80% material tests passing 106µm as the “optimum” grind size, the board explained, when operating costs and revenue benefits were analysed.

Mineralogical evaluations were continuing to assess the gold deportment and mineralogical associations - notable the role of mica present in the ore and gold liberation characterisation as a function of mica content and grinding energy input.

“The metallurgical test work on the Borborema Gold Project bankable feasibility study is progressing well and is delivering some key positives with regard to optimising work-streams,” said chief executive officer Marcus Engelbrecht.

“In particular the results from the OMC review regarding the SAG mill option, as well as the conclusions reached on grind size will have a real and positive impact on capital and operating costs and project economics.”