Process options evaluated for Eritrean copper deposit

BATEMAN is undertaking a conceptual study for a joint venture between Sub-Sahara Resources NL and Sunridge Gold Corp. for the development of the copper-gold Debarwa project, located some 30 km south of the capital, Asmara, in Eritrea. The study, worth Aus$60 000, is examining various processing options for the project's polymetallic resource which contains predominately copper but also significant zinc, gold and silver values.

The process options being evaluated cover concentrate-based processes and whole-ore based processes, the latter being either heap leaching for copper and then for gold to produce metal on site, or whole-ore agitated leaching. BATEMAN is well placed to carry out this assessment as it has completed studies on similar processes that could be considered and has constructed and commissioned a number of plants employing similar technology.

While the study will focus on commercially available processes, an innovative approach is required to address the limited reserves at Debarwa and its remote location.

In addition to capital and operating cost, the ultimate recommendation on which process route to adopt will address the mineralogy of the deposit, as well as site logistics and infrastructure requirements associated with operating in Eritrea. Cost competitiveness and technical risk are also key parameters.

For further information, please contact Ken Gottliebsen, Business Manager, Copper, on tel: +61-7-3320-3318 or email basemetals@batemanengineering.com.

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