BMR Mining identifies new use for WKS assets in Zambia

Zambia-focused mineral processing business BMR Mining said it has identified a potential market for its Waelz Kiln Slag (WKS) assets.

The assets at Kabwe, Zambia, had been written down by 90% to £201,000 in the accounts for the year ended 30 June 2014 due to the product being brittle and hard, of too low a grade and too difficult to process on a commercial basis.

However, the company said it has now identified, from studies undertaken by the Building Research Establishment UK, that the WKS, being a ferro-silicate zinc slag (smelter slag), could be applied in the construction of building blocks.

As a result, BMR has instructed its environmental consultants to prepare a submission, including BMR's test results, to seek approval from the Zambian Environmental Management Agency to sell the WKS for incorporation in block and concrete making.

Chairman and chief executive officer Alex Borrelli said: “We are pleased to note this significant opportunity to realise cash from the Waelz Kiln Slag which we could not otherwise process easily and in an environmentally advantageous manner.

“We therefore anticipate BMR generating revenue next year, following receipt of ZEMA approval, from both the processing of Wash Plant Tailings and the Waelz Kiln Slag.”

At 0912 BST, BMR shares were up 6.4% at 5.06p.