Canada Nickel Company (TSXV: CNC) this morning released to the market metallurgical test results for its flagship Crawford Nickel-Cobalt Sulphide project, which is located within the Timmins-Cochrane mining camp of Ontario. Testing conducted by the company resulted in nickel recovery of 46% and 51% from two tests, referred to as lock cycle tests.
The first phase of testing conducted by the company was reportedly focused on the initial flowsheet design. The process uses two stage of grind-deslime-float in conjunction with magnetic separation, which supports the recovery of magnetic materials. Further testing and optimization is planned to occur through 2021, leading to a feasibility study which is scheduled for completion at the end of next year.
Testing to date has occurred on 630 kilograms of mineralized material collected from site via drilling that took place in 2020. Samples used for the current testing are said to have contained grades of nickel and sulphur that “bookended” grades from the measured and indicated resource at the Main Zone. Optimization of the program is focused on the “net zero” production target for the project.
Looking to 2021, the company’s metallurgical testing is to focus on optimizing the recovery and concentrate grades, as well as the amount of grinding and reagents required to obtain these grades. The company will also focus on ongoing lab work that has highlighted the potential for a high grade concentrate via the use of a coarser grind.
“The 46% and 51% recovery from samples which bookend the grades in the higher-grade core compare very favourably to similar projects. [..] Several lab tests yielded a portion of recovered nickel with concentrate grades in excess of 30%. The next phases of work will focus on continued flowsheet optimization and developing a broad base of test samples. These are essential given the wide range of mineralogy in these types of deposits which typically results in nickel recoveries for a specific block ranging from 10-15% to as much as 60%.”
Mark Selby, Chair & CEO
Canada Nickel Company last traded at $1.99 on the TSX Venture.
Information for this briefing was found via Sedar and Canada Nickel Company. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
