Unicorn Mineral Resources (LSE:UMR) has increased the copper recovery at the Klein Aub Copper Mine in Namibia, after conducting glycine leaching tests on the tailings samples.
The company says these findings support its confidence in the project’s economic viability.
Carried out by Draslovka, the laboratory tests used proprietary glycine extraction technology. Through the impact of adding an oxidation element, extending the test duration and increasing the temperature, Unicorn Mineral says it was possible to increase the copper recovery percentage from the tailings.
Unicorn Mineral adds that the upward trajectory of the curve suggests that the reaction had not completed and that further optimisation could result in even higher recoveries.
Additionally, the tests have only looked at the extraction of the copper and work is still to be carried out to investigate the potential to extract the silver. The results are preliminary values and have been sent for independent analysis.
Further, work is currently underway to complete the acquisition of the 75% interest in Klein Aub. The acquisition is expected to be completed in April 2026.
Chairman Paddy Doherty says Draslovka’s expertise in the field of glycine leaching technology is helping move this project from concept to a commercially viable proposition.
The Klein Aub Project is a historical copper-silver mine located within the Kalahari Copper Belt. Mining began in 1966 and was closed in 1986. The project comprises two exclusive prospecting licences covering 65.4km2.
Unicorn Mineral Resources is an Irish-headquartered mineral explorer focused on a diverse range of minerals.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: Unicorn Mineral Resources
