Spanish Mountain Gold Boosts Phoenix Deposit Potential with Particle Ore Sorting
Event summary
- Spanish Mountain Gold completed Phase 1 XRT particle ore sorting tests on the Phoenix deposit, achieving 2x grade upgrades and 85-92% gold recovery.
- The tests rejected 50-70% of waste material, potentially improving project economics and reducing environmental impact.
- Phase 2 testing has begun with 100-kg bulk samples from the Phoenix and Main deposits.
- Results will inform a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) update expected in H1 2026.
The big picture
Spanish Mountain Gold's successful Phase 1 particle ore sorting tests highlight a growing trend in the mining sector toward pre-concentration technologies that enhance efficiency and sustainability. The results align with broader industry efforts to optimize resource utilization and reduce environmental footprints, particularly in gold mining where grade improvements can significantly impact project viability. The company's focus on leveraging technology to build a 'greener' mine positions it within a competitive landscape where operational efficiency and ESG considerations are increasingly critical.
What we're watching
- Production Upside
- How the XRT sorting technology will affect milled grades and gold production during the first decade of operation.
- Economic Impact
- Whether the Phase 2 results will significantly improve the project's scale and economics.
- Execution Risk
- The pace at which Spanish Mountain Gold can integrate these findings into a construction decision by 2027.
Related topics