Update on Silver Recovery Technologies for Candelaria Mine
NONToxic, Cyanide-Free Method Doubles Recovery Potential
Silver One Resources Inc. (TSXV: SVE; OTCQX: SLVRF) has revealed promising results from ongoing metallurgical testing at its Candelaria Silver Mine. The innovative process utilizes a cyanide-free leaching method that shows potential to double silver recoveries while dramatically reducing leaching times. This test phase, referred to as Phase 2, focuses on the leach pad materials and in-ground mineralization surrounding the mine's open pits.
Innovative Testing Methods and Results
The tests were carried out on samples taken from two heap-leach pads, designated LP1 and LP2, showcasing significant improvements in silver recovery rates compared to traditional cyanide methods. The company collaborated with Extrakt Processing Solutions (EPS), which has a strategic partnership with Bechtel Energy Technologies to advance this novel, non-toxic technology.
Operational Benefits of Non-Cyanide Solutions
With current no commercial operations using similar leach solutions, the positive results from Candelaria indicate a significant advancement in sustainable mining practices. Upcoming plans for a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) will evaluate the financial implications of implementing this new technology over traditional cyanide leaching methods.
Highlights of the Testing Phase
- The non-cyanide technology has shown to be effective in extracting silver from lower-grade heap-leach materials, achieving recovery rates of 63% from LP1 and 69% from LP2.
- Comparatively, traditional cyanide leaching yielded much lower recoveries—only 29% and 40% from the same pads.
- Further results indicate that silver recoveries using this non-cyanide process surpass those previously reported for cyanide leaching.
- Recovery tests on fresh material have shown similarly promising results, suggesting that the EPS technology may rival or exceed cyanide techniques.
Insights from Company Leadership
Gregory Crowe, President and CEO of Silver One, emphasized the potential of EPS’s technology in transforming silver recovery processes. He expressed optimism about the opportunities that lie within the Candelaria’s mineral resources."The outcomes of the new tests validate the effectiveness of EPS' technology for recovering silver, possibly replacing the need for cyanide leaching entirely. Our tests demonstrate that we might recover over 60% of the silver in existing heap-leach pads, confirming prior testing which indicated lower recoveries. This innovation not only enhances recovery but is also more environmentally friendly and cost-effective," he stated.
Future Plans with Candelaria Project
Silver One aims to incorporate these test results into the forthcoming PEA for the Candelaria project, which is scheduled for early next year. The study will focus on the entire project, including heap leach pads and in-ground mineralization. A Pre-Feasibility Study on the heap leach pads is also being considered to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the potential business benefits of the newly developed leaching technology.
Quality Control and Analytical Standards
To ensure high-quality results, samples were assayed by American Assay Laboratories, which follows stringent industry standards, including the use of appropriate blanks and standards for precise sample preparation. This rigorous QA/QC process guarantees the accuracy of the metallurgical results presented.
About Silver One Resources
Silver One Resources is committed to developing quality silver projects. Its flagship asset, the Candelaria Mine, represents a substantial opportunity for silver recovery from historic leach pads. The company also holds various other silver assets in Nevada, aiming to leverage opportunities for potential near-term production.
About Extrakt Processing Solutions
Extrakt is dedicated to advancing separation technologies for recovering precious metals. Their innovative methods not only improve recovery rates but do so in an environmentally sustainable manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What new technology is being tested at Candelaria Mine?
Silver One is using a non-toxic, cyanide-free leaching technology that potentially doubles silver recoveries from mining operations.
How does the new method compare to traditional cyanide leaching?
The innovative method shows recovery rates of 63% and 69% for LP1 and LP2, compared to only 29% and 40% from cyanide leaching.
When will the results be officially evaluated?
The results will be incorporated into a Preliminary Economic Assessment scheduled for early next year.
Who developed the new leaching technology?
The technology was developed by Extrakt Processing Solutions, which is collaborating with Bechtel Energy Technologies to commercialize it.
What are the future plans for Silver One Resources?
The company intends to continue exploring additional opportunities to enhance silver recovery and to evaluate their resource potentials through ongoing assessments and studies.
