Latest news with #metallurgy
Forbes
30-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
New MTU-IACMI Partnership Expands Metallurgy Education And Outreach
Casting—pouring molten metal into molds to create new components—is one of the fundamental skills ... More covered by IACMI's METAL program. With all the focus currently on skilled trades training and recruiting, one vital area that hasn't gotten a lot of attention is the fundamental processes of making things from metal. The Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship & Learning program was founded in June 2024 to help with that, and its latest win is a new partnership with Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Michigan. METAL is led by the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation with funding from the Department of Defense's Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program, It focuses breakthrough education and awareness efforts on the metallurgical processes of casting, forging and plate rolling. The new partnership will provide workforce training to strengthen metalworking industries. As METAL's newest hub operator, Michigan Tech joins The Ohio State University, the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, the University of Alabama in Birmingham, and Pennsylvania State University in helping deliver METAL's nationally recognized curriculum, facilitate instructor certification, and launch boot camps and academic pathways for metalworking professionals. MTU will also integrate METAL training into its existing Summer Youth Programs, offering an introduction to metalworking, metallurgy and materials science to high school students from across the Upper Midwest. Plate rolling—running hot metal through progressive roll mills to create thinner slabs—is another of ... More the basic processes in the METAL program. 'We're trying to create exposure,' Greg Harrell, workforce coordinator at IACMI, told me in an interview. 'K through gray is what we call it, from kindergarten all the way through to adults, to expose them to different types of metallurgical-type processes.' 'So Michigan Tech, one of the ones things they're doing is summer youth programs,' added Michael Kubacki, project coordinator at IACMI added. 'We're able to help fund those so that they have more casting and forging curriculum, or expand on it, add more summer youth programs to try to get more kids interested. It can also drive them to take a metal or material science or engineering course at school so you can help drive admissions into the higher degree pathways for engineering.' The MTU hub curriculum will combine interactive online learning with in-person casting and forging boot camps at MTU's state-of-the-art labs. Future educational modules will incorporate training on automation in casting and forging and will open pathways to employment in critical industry roles. 'We have a fully working foundry,' Alexandra Glover, assistant professor of materials science and engineering at MTU, said in an interview. 'We have full-time staff who work there. So it's a really easy thing for us to slot in. As a department, we've taught a very rigorous castings class for a very long time, and so curriculum-wise, a lot of the activities line up really well with METAL. We're used to having large groups of students in our foundry all the time.' Forging—using powerful presses to shape hot metal—is another of the METAL program's fundamental ... More metallurgical processes. Glover sees additional educational opportunities arising as the program moves forward. 'We're making some upgrades to the facilities, just to have better teaching spaces, designated spaces where we don't have to deconflict research and teaching as much. We are getting a mill and a lathe so we can incorporate some machining into our program… Right now, they are mostly focused on casting. My background is actually in forging. For me, I would love to get more into the metalworking space.' Growing the program is also a focus for IACMI as well. 'We're going to continue to grow our network,' said Kubacki. 'We have a proposal out there that is not yet to be executed, but we're told soon that'll help us get eight to 10 more sites. … We also have Ohio State, and one of their deliverables is plans for a mobile foundry.' 'We're also trying to integrate the METAL program into our high schools,' added Harrell. 'We're doing one in Grange County here in Tennessee. We're integrating our place like a workshop where the kids will melt tin, they'll create a mold, they'll pour that, and we'll have some curriculum-building around that with the teachers there. We have a lot of outreach programs we're doing there to try to spark more interest in the metallurgical-type processes.' From her perch at Michigan Tech, Glover sees both the need for, and the tremendous opportunities that can arise from, programs like METAL. 'There's a ton of need for people to enter this workforce, a ton of opportunity to develop new technologies. Our factories and our forging houses and our metalworking spaces need to be modernized. They need a high level of investment over the next couple decades just to meet the manufacturing needs of this country. And that really hasn't been the case for a long time. So it's a really exciting time, and it's also a great area for employment. Michigan Tech grads have a super-high employment rate. I think that's true for engineering in general, and this is a great industry that has had a lot of hiring and continues to have a lot of hiring. And that's true both on the college side and on the trade side. You can make a really good career out of being a trades person in a metalworking space.'
Globe and Mail
24-06-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
First Atlantic Nickel Reports 366 Meters of 1.46% Nickel in Magnetic Concentrate From Third RPM Zone Step-Out Drill Hole, Opening Eastern Expansion Discovery Potential
GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR, Newfoundland and Labrador, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (TSXV: FAN) (OTCQB: FANCF) (FSE: P21) ("First Atlantic" or the "Company") is pleased to announce positive Davis Tube Recovery (DTR) metallurgical test results from drill hole AN-24-04, the third hole completed during Phase 1 drilling at the RPM Zone, within its district scale Atlantic Nickel Project (the 'Project'). Drill hole AN-24-04 returned 366 meters averaging 1.46% nickel and 1.56% chromium in magnetic concentrate, with a mass pull of 9.53%, resulting in a magnetically recoverable nickel grade (DTR grade) of 0.14%. This 200-meter step-out hole, drilled east of the initial RPM discovery hole AN-24-02, confirms that widespread disseminated visible awaruite mineralization extends significantly further east toward Chrome Pond. To date, the first three holes drilled along an east-west line at the RPM Zone have delineated at least 500 meters of lateral width, demonstrating remarkably consistent metallurgical results. These holes returned nickel magnetic concentrate grades of 1.37%, 1.32%, and 1.46%, with corresponding mass pulls of 9.49%, 9.12%, and 9.53%, respectively. The Company anticipates receiving DTR metallurgical results shortly for the fourth RPM drill hole (AN-24-05) in the Phase 1 program. All drill holes intersected long intervals of disseminated awaruite nickel mineralization and ending in mineralization, indicating that the system remains open at depth with significant expansion potential. Drill hole AN-24-04, drilled eastward toward Chrome Pond, returned the best results to date and ended in mineralization, establishing this eastern direction as a high-priority expansion target for the Phase 2 drilling program, which is currently underway. The consistency of concentrate grades and mass pulls across this 500-meter width highlights the robust nature of the awaruite mineralization system at RPM. Awaruite (Ni₃Fe) is a naturally occurring nickel-iron alloy containing ~75% nickel. Its sulfur-free composition and highly magnetic properties enable recovery through magnetic separation, a simple, effective, and environmentally sustainable method commonly used in iron ore mining operations throughout North America and globally. This unique mineralogy eliminates the need for costly secondary processing steps required by sulfide nickel ores, which undergo energy-intensive smelting or roasting at high temperatures to remove sulfur, consuming significant electricity and generating environmentally harmful waste and emissions. These secondary processing steps also incur treatment and refining charges (TCs/RCs) which increase overall processing costs and reduce overall payability. The positive DTR results from the RPM Zone confirm that awaruite nickel from the Atlantic Nickel Project is amenable to magnetic separation without the need for smelting or roasting. The limited smelting and roasting capacity in North America currently presents a significant bottleneck to building a fully domestic, secure, and resilient nickel supply chain. Nickel smelters and roasters also pose environmental concerns, face complex permitting challenges, and require substantial electrical infrastructure to support their energy-intensive operations. In contrast, awaruite represents a source of nickel that enables domestic processing by eliminating the requirement for smelting or roasting, thereby reducing geopolitical risk and reliance on overseas smelters. This processing pathway positions awaruite as a strategic source of nickel for establishing a secure, resilient domestic nickel supply chain. HIGHLIGHTS Strong DTR Metallurgical Results: Drill hole AN-24-04 returned 366 meters of 1.46% nickel and 1.56% chromium in magnetic concentrate, with peak grades up to 2.42% nickel and 4.59% chromium. The results were achieved with an average mass pull of 9.53%, effectively reducing total mass by 90.43% through magnetic separation. Consistent Recovery Across RPM Holes: The first three drill holes in the RPM Zone demonstrate remarkably consistent DTR grades of magnetically recoverable nickel (refer to Table 4), further validating the effectiveness of magnetic separation for awaruite nickel mineralization. RPM Zone Expansion: DTR metallurgical test results now confirm ~500 meters of lateral width at the RPM Zone, with consistent magnetically recoverable nickel awaruite grades across all three holes. Eastern Expansion Potential: Drill hole AN-24-04, which ended in mineralization and returned the best results to date, has established the eastern extension toward Chrome Pond as a high-priority target for further expansion. Phase 2 Drilling Underway: Strategic step-out drilling to greater depths is actively testing the expansion of the RPM Zone mineralization in all directions - north toward Pipestone Pond, east toward Chrome Pond, and west into RPM fault zone. For further information, questions, or investor inquiries, please contact Rob Guzman at First Atlantic Nickel by phone at +1-844-592-6337 or via email at rob@ RPM ZONE DRILL HOLE AN-24-04 RESULTS Table 1: DTR Metallurgical Test Results Summary from RPM Drill Hole 3 (AN-24-04) Parameter Average Maximum Drill Length Nickel - Magnetic Concentrate Grade (Davis Tube Recovery Concentrate assayed by XRF-Fusion) 1.46 % 2.42% 366m Chromium - Magnetic Concentrate Grade (Davis Tube Recovery Concentrate assayed by XRF-Fusion) 1.56 % 4.59% 366m Mass Pull (Magnetic Concentrate mass as % of Davis Tube test starting mass) 9.53 % 15.0% 366m Total Nickel Grade (Whole Rock ICP-OES assay) 0.23 % 0.28% 366m DTR Nickel Grade - Magnetically Recovered Nickel (Calculated with Davis Tube Recovery method) 0.14 % 0.18% 366m Total Nickel Recovery (Magnetically Recovered Nickel as Percentage of Whole Rock Assay) 59.09 % 93.4% 366m The Company's third drill hole at the RPM zone, AN-24-04, has delivered positive DTR metallurgical test results that significantly expand the area of awaruite mineralization. The hole intersected 366 meters averaging 1.45% nickel and 1.57% chromium in magnetic concentrate, with individual samples reaching up to 2.42% nickel and 4.59% chromium. The consistent mass pull of 9.57% and high-grade magnetic nickel concentrate across the entire interval demonstrates uniform awaruite mineralization throughout the ultramafic host rocks. These metallurgical results build upon the whole rock assay data previously announced on April 23, 2025, which reported intersections of 0.23% nickel and 0.31% chromium over the same 366-meter interval. Located 200 meters east of the initial RPM Zone drilling, step-out hole AN-24-04 confirms the lateral continuity of the mineralization system across an open-ended 500-meter width. The DTR nickel grade of 0.14% over 366 meters represents the highest magnetically recoverable grade achieved to date at RPM, with total magnetic nickel recovery averaging 59%. Notably, the hole ended in mineralization, indicating the system remains open to the east toward Chrome Pond. The consistency of mass pull and recovery rates across the first three drill holes at the RPM Zone, ranging from 6.0% to 15.0% mass pull, further highlights the uniform and predictable nature of the awaruite mineralization. This is a key factor that supports future resource development and the potential for scalable extraction. Table 2: DTR Metallurgical Test Results Summary from RPM Drill Hole 3 (AN-24-04) Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Mass Pull (%) Nickel - Magnetic Concentrate Grade Ni ( %) Nickel - Total Grade Ni (%) DTR Nickel Grade - Magnetically Recovered Ni (%) Total Nickel Recovery (%) Chromium - Magnetic Concentrate Grade Cr (%) Chromium Total Grade Cr (%) DTR Chromium Grade - Magnetically Recovered Cr (%) Cobalt - Magnetic Concentrate Grade Co (%) Hole AN-24-04 12 378 366 9.53 1.46 0.23 0.14 59.09 % 1.56 0.31 0.15 0.06 Drill Hole Interval Breakdown including 12 63 51 9.99 1.48 0.23 0.15 62.12 % 1.88 0.31 0.18 0.06 including 63 183 120 10.03 1.27 0.22 0.13 56.66 % 1.70 0.32 0.17 0.06 including 183 255 72 9.92 1.50 0.24 0.15 62.83 % 1.44 0.32 0.14 0.06 including 255 378 123 8.63 1.60 0.23 0.14 58.02 % 1.37 0.29 0.12 0.06 Including "Up To" 15.00 2.42 0.28 0.18 93.41 % 4.59 0.86 0.45 0.09 Table 3: RPM Drill Hole 3 (AN-24-04) Drill Hole Collar Location Hole ID Easting (UTM NAD 83) Northing (UTM NAD 83) Elevation Azimuth: Dip: AN-24-004 567315 5357583 232 90 -60 Table 4: RPM Phase 1 DTR Metallurgical Results Summary Drill hole Interval (m) Magnetic Concentrate Nickel Percent Grade Mass Pull (%) Magnetically Recoverable Nickel Grade (DTR Ni%) Drill Ended in Mineralization AN-24-02 383 1.37% 9.49 0.13 YES AN-24-03 216 1.32% 9.12 0.11 YES AN-24-04 366 1.46% 9.53 0.14 YES AN-24-05 396 Results Pending Note: DTR Nickel Grade (%) is a derived parameter calculated by multiplying the nickel grade of the magnetic concentrate (determined by XRF-Fusion assay) by the mass pull percentage (calculated by dividing the weight of the magnetic concentrate by the initial sample weight). Magnetically Recoverable Nickel (DTR Ni %) represents the amount of magnetically recoverable nickel in the sample. For a visual explanation of the Davis Tube Recovery process, see: Figure 1: Cross-sectional view of the RPM Zone's Discovery Drill Hole 1, 2 and 3 (AN-24-02, AN-24-03, AN-24-04), showing the distribution of magnetic concentrate and DTR nickel values. Drill hole AN-24-04 averages 1.46% nickel and 1.56% chromium in continuous metallurgical DTR magnetic concentrate, with an average 9.53% Mass Pull and 0.14% DTR nickel across a 366 meter interval. Figure 2: Core sample from drill hole RPM-DDH003 (AN-24-04) at a depth of 100 meters, showing visible awaruite mineralization. The lower images detail magnified views of awaruite grains, which exhibit both smooth and grooved surface textures, with grain sizes ranging from 422 to 651 microns. Figure 3: Core sample from drill hole RPM-DDH003 (AN-24-04) at a depth of 180 meters, featuring visible awaruite mineralization. The lower images showcase magnified views of the awaruite grains, displaying smooth and grooved surface textures. An elongated awaruite nickel-alloy grain, measuring up to 1,000 microns in size, is observed forming as a fracture filling, while average visible grain sizes range from 100 - 600 microns. Figure 4: Drill hole location map with results summary at Atlantic Nickel Project, showing the 30 km trend of awaruite (sulfur-free nickel-alloy) mineralization over Total Magnetic intensity (TMI) magnetics. PHASE 2 DRILLING UPDATE AND EASTERN EXPANSION Phase 2 drilling is actively underway at the RPM Zone, with the program strategically designed to expand the current mineralized footprint beyond the approximately 400-meter length by 500-meter width defined by the initial four Phase 1 drill holes. Strategic step-out drilling at greater depths is now actively testing mineralization expansion in all directions - north toward Pipestone Pond, east toward Chrome Pond, and west into the RPM fault zone. The results from AN-24-04, the third RPM hole, have highlighted strong potential for eastern expansion. The elevated DTR grades and the fact that the hole terminated in mineralization indicates that the awaruite system continues eastward. This area, extending toward Chrome Pond, is now a high-priority target for ongoing drilling, with mineralization encountered to date suggesting possible connectivity across the entire area. The Phase 2 program is further supported by upgraded project infrastructure, including improved road access and expanded camp facilities. In addition, equipment optimizations have enabled drilling to greater depths, positioning the project to significantly expand the RPM Zone's known mineralized footprint across all target directions. Awaruite (Nickel-iron alloy Ni₂Fe, Ni₃Fe) Awaruite, a naturally occurring sulfur-free nickel-iron alloy composed of Ni₃Fe or Ni₂Fe with approximately ~75% nickel content, offers a proven and environmentally safe solution to enhance the resilience and security of North America's domestic critical minerals supply chain. Unlike conventional nickel sources, awaruite can be processed into high-grade concentrates exceeding 60% nickel content through magnetic processing and simple floatation without the need for smelting, roasting, or high-pressure acid leaching 1. Beginning in 2025, the US Inflation Reduction Act's (IRA) $7,500 electric vehicle (EV) tax credit mandates that eligible clean vehicles must not contain any critical minerals processed by foreign entities of concern (FEOC) 2. These entities include Russia and China, which currently dominate the global nickel smelting industry. Awaruite's smelter-free processing approach could potentially help North American electric vehicle manufacturers meet the IRA's stringent critical mineral requirements and reduce dependence on FEOCs for nickel processing. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) highlighted awaruite's potential, stating, "The development of awaruite deposits in other parts of Canada may help alleviate any prolonged shortage of nickel concentrate. Awaruite, a natural iron-nickel alloy, is much easier to concentrate than pentlandite, the principal sulfide of nickel" 3. Awaruite's unique properties enable cleaner and safer processing compared to conventional sulfide and laterite nickel sources, which often involve smelting, roasting, or high-pressure acid leaching that can release toxic sulfur dioxide, generate hazardous waste, and lead to acid mine drainage. Awaruite's simpler processing, facilitated by its amenability to magnetic processing and lack of sulfur, eliminates these harmful methods, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and risks associated with toxic chemical release, addressing concerns about the large carbon footprint and toxic emissions linked to nickel refining. Figure 5: Quote from USGS on Awaruite Deposits in Canada The development of awaruite resources is crucial, given China's control in the global nickel market. Chinese companies refine and smelt 68% to 80% of the world's nickel 4 and control an estimated 84% of Indonesia's nickel output, the largest worldwide supply 5. Awaruite is a cleaner source of nickel that reduces dependence on foreign processing controlled by China, leading to a more secure and reliable supply for North America's stainless steel and electric vehicle industries. Investor Information The Company's common shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol " FAN", the American OTCQB Exchange under the symbol ' FANCF ' and on several German exchanges, including Frankfurt and Tradegate, under the symbol " P21". Investors can get updates about First Atlantic by signing up to receive news via email and SMS text at Stay connected and learn more by following us on these social media platforms: Disclosure Adrian Smith, a director and the Chief Executive Officer of the Company is a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101. The qualified person is a member in good standing of the Professional Engineers and Geoscientists Newfoundland and Labrador (PEGNL) and is a registered professional geoscientist ( Mr. Smith has reviewed and approved the technical information disclosed herein. Analytical Method & QA/QC Samples were split in half on site, with one half remaining in the core box for future reference and the other half securely packaged for laboratory analysis. The QA/QC protocol included the insertion of blanks, duplicates, and certified reference material (standards), with one QA/QC sample being inserted every 20 samples to monitor the precision and accuracy of the laboratory results. All analytical results successfully passed QA/QC screening at the laboratory, and all Company inserted standards and blanks returned results within acceptable limits. Samples were submitted to Activation Laboratories Ltd. ('Actlabs') in Ancaster, Ontario, an ISO 17025 certified and accredited laboratory operating independently of First Atlantic. Each sample was crushed, with a 250 g sub-sample pulverized to 95% - 200 mesh. A magnetic separation was then generated by running the pulverized sub-sample through a magnetic separator which splits the sub-sample into magnetic and non-magnetic fractions. This involves running a 30 g split of the pulp through a Davis Tube magnetic separator as a slurry using a constant flow rate, a magnetic field strength of 3,500 Gauss, and a tube angle of 45 degrees to produce magnetic and non-magnetic fractions. The magnetic fractions are collected, dried, weighed and the magnetic fraction is fused with a lithium metaborate/tetraborate flux and lithium bromide releasing agent and then analyzed on a wavelength dispersive XRF for multiple elements including nickel, cobalt, iron and chromium. The magnetically recovered nickel grade was then calculated by multiplying the XRF fusion nickel value by the weight of the magnetic fraction and dividing by the total recorded feed weight or magnetic mass pulled from the sample. True widths are currently unknown. However, the nickel bearing ultramafic ophiolite and peridotite rocks being targeted and sampled in the Phase 1 drilling program at the Atlantic Nickel Project are mapped as several hundred meters to over 1 kilometer wide and approximately 30 kilometers long. About First Atlantic Nickel Corp. First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (TSXV: FAN) (OTCQB: FANCF) (FSE: P21) is a Canadian mineral exploration company developing the 100%-owned Atlantic Nickel Project, a large-scale nickel project strategically located near existing infrastructure in Newfoundland, Canada. The Project's nickel occurs as awaruite, a natural nickel-iron alloy containing approximately 75% nickel with no-sulfur and no-sulfides. Awaruite's properties allow for smelter-free magnetic separation and concentration, which could strengthen North America's critical minerals supply chain by reducing foreign dependence on nickel smelting. This aligns with new US Electric Vehicle US IRA requirements, which stipulate that beginning in 2025, an eligible clean vehicle may not contain any critical minerals processed by a FEOC (Foreign Entities of Concern) 6. First Atlantic aims to be a key input of a secure and reliable North American critical minerals supply chain for the stainless steel and electric vehicle industries in the USA and Canada. The company is positioned to meet the growing demand for responsibly sourced nickel that complies with the critical mineral requirements for eligible clean vehicles under the US IRA. With its commitment to responsible practices and experienced team, First Atlantic is poised to contribute significantly to the nickel industry's future, supporting the transition to a cleaner energy landscape. This mission gained importance when the US added nickel to its critical minerals list in 2022, recognizing it as a non-fuel mineral essential to economic and national security with a supply chain vulnerable to disruption. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking statements: This news release may include "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and are based on a number of estimates and/or assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to: statements regarding: the timing, scope and results of the Company's Phase 1 and Phase 2 work and drilling programs; future project developments; the Company's objectives, goals, and future plans; statements and estimates of market conditions; the viability of magnetic separation as a low-impact processing method for awaruite; the strategic and economic implications of the Company's projects; and expectations regarding future developments and strategic plans; Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking information are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties, uncertain and volatile equity and capital markets, lack of available capital, actual results of exploration activities, environmental risks, future prices of base and other metals, operating risks, accidents, labour issues, delays in obtaining governmental approvals and permits, and other risks in the mining and clean energy industries. Additional factors and risks including various risk factors discussed in the Company's disclosure documents which can be found under the Company's profile on Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. The Company is presently an exploration stage company. Exploration is highly speculative in nature, involves many risks, requires substantial expenditures, and may not result in the discovery of mineral deposits that can be mined profitably. Furthermore, the Company currently has no mineral reserves on any of its properties. As a result, there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities laws. ___________________________ Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
Bloomberg
19-06-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
Top Russian Steelmaker Sees Risk of Shutdowns as Economy Slows
Slumping Russian steel demand, due to a construction slowdown amid broader economic weakness, may force some of the country's producers to halt output, according to Severstal PJSC 's chief. 'The shutdown of some metallurgical production facilities in Russia can not be ruled out as a measure to balance supply,' Severstal's Chief Executive Officer Alexander Shevelev said in interview with Rossiya-24 television channel.
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Surge Copper Reports Excellent Metallurgical Results Supporting Pre-Feasibility Advancement at Berg Project
Locked cycle tests exceed 90% copper and molybdenum recoveries and confirm clean final products with high separation efficiency Vancouver, British Columbia, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Surge Copper Corp. (TSXV: SURG) (OTCQB: SRGXF) (Frankfurt: G6D2) ('Surge' or the 'Company') is pleased to announce results from its recently completed metallurgical testwork program for its 100%-owned Berg Project, located in central British Columbia. The program was designed to support future pre-feasibility level technical studies, confirming the amenability of conventional flotation processes for producing saleable copper and molybdenum concentrates, while advancing understanding of key recovery parameters. The testwork was conducted by ALS Metallurgy Kamloops ('ALS') from June 2024 to May 2025. Highlights Over 1,350 kg of representative material used to form three primary composites representing anticipated run of mine material (hypogene, supergene, and transitional supergene) 27 variability composites tested, covering all major rock and alteration types spatially distributed across all areas and depths of the proposed open pit Over 60 flotation tests conducted to optimize parameters and improve recoveries Locked cycle testing achieved up to 90.7% Cu and 93.0% Mo recovery to bulk concentrate grading 29.7% Cu Excellent copper-molybdenum separation confirmed, with Mo recoveries of 94.6% and 95.6% from bulk concentrates across the main hypogene and supergene composites respectively High consistency in recovery results across variability composites for both Cu and Mo Final copper and molybdenum concentrates from both the hypogene and supergene composites confirmed to be clean with no penalty elements Following the successful completion of the Berg Preliminary Economic Assessment ('PEA') (see June 13, 2023 press release), Surge initiated a comprehensive metallurgical program based on recommendations from Ausenco Engineering Canada ULC ('Ausenco'). ALS was retained to carry out the program, with Surge and Ausenco personnel supporting composite selection to reflect projected mine schedules. Over 1,350 kilograms of material was used to generate three primary composites representing the hypogene, supergene, and transitional supergene zones. The goal was to build on prior testwork by improving recovery profiles and validating flotation performance across all major lithologies. Bulk concentrates from these tests were subjected to copper-molybdenum separation to confirm the efficiency of producing a separate marketable molybdenum concentrate. In addition, 27 variability composites were created to test recovery correlations across spatial and mineralogical variation throughout the proposed open pit. The testwork confirmed the effectiveness of a conventional flotation circuit featuring primary grinding, standard rougher and cleaner flotation stages, and minimal regrind requirements. Importantly, strong recoveries were achieved using widely available, low-cost reagents such as xanthate collectors and lime for pH control, with no reliance on specialty or high-cost chemicals. This underscores the simplicity, scalability, and economic attractiveness of the proposed flowsheet. Overall, the results provide strong confidence in the proposed flotation flowsheet for consistently recovering copper, molybdenum, silver, and gold into saleable concentrates, and will be used to develop improved recovery formula for use in future pre-feasibility studies. Management Commentary Leif Nilsson, Chief Executive Officer, commented:'Berg is one of the largest undeveloped copper-molybdenum projects in North America, and these results represent a major milestone in demonstrating its technical and economic strength. While our copper grades are strong by regional standards, the molybdenum contribution is a true differentiator, with globally competitive head grades and now clearly demonstrated high recoveries for both metals. These results validate the flowsheet used in our PEA and provide the confidence to improve upon the conservative recovery formulas used in that study, where life of mine recoveries for copper and molybdenum averaged 80% and 75%, respectively. As we move into pre-feasibility work, we now have a clear pathway to higher expected metal recoveries. This progress further de-risks the project and reinforces the disconnect we see between Berg's fundamental value and the market's current view. We're advancing a technically robust, high-margin asset, and this work underlines the quality and maturity of the project.' Mark Wheeler, VP Projects, commented:'We are very happy with the results of this testwork. Taking a measured and stepwise approach, the team was able to efficiently use sample material to better understand the flotation kinetics and parameters across all zones of the Berg deposit. The results demonstrated significantly increased recoveries, seeing greater than 90% copper recovery in locked cycle tests from the hypogene composite compared to the 80% Cu recovery estimate that was used in the Berg PEA. Further, copper-molybdenum separation tests showed excellent results, with up to 95.6% recovery of molybdenum with rapid and simple flotation kinetics.' Metallurgical Program Details Samples were collected from 16 core holes across the Berg resource, spanning depths from 10 to 350 metres. Based on the assayed proportion of weak acid soluble copper ('CuWAS'), the material was classified into three master composites: Table 1. Head assay data for master composites Composite Type CuWAS Proportion Mass (kg) Cu (%) Mo (%) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) S(t) (%) Hypogene 1% 697 0.25 0.03 2.75 0.02 2.95 Transitional Supergene 3% 374 0.29 0.01 5.60 0.03 2.32 Supergene 12% 281 0.37 0.03 3.45 0.03 2.75 From the total mass, a subset of 27 variability composite samples was also extracted for testing recovery performance and comminution characteristics (including Bond Ball Mill Work Index and SMC) across alteration types and pit locations. Each master composite underwent flotation testing targeting recovery of copper, molybdenum, silver, and gold. In total, the flotation program included the following tests (not including variability tests): 27 rougher flotation tests 31 cleaner flotation tests 9 locked cycle tests Key variables tested included grind size, reagent scheme, pH, and cell agitator energy density. Optimal results were achieved with a primary grind of 80% passing 160 µm, yielding: Hypogene composite: 90.7% Cu, 93.0% Mo recovery to a bulk concentrate grading 29.7% Cu Transitional Supergene composite: 88.4% Cu, 92.1% Mo to concentrate grading 26.3% Cu Supergene composite: 80.5% Cu, 88.6% Mo to concentrate grading 23.1% Cu (total copper recovery, implying recovery of non-CuWAS of 91.9%) Table 2. Simplified test results from the bulk-circuit locked cycle tests Concentrate Grade Recovery Composite Cu (%) Mo (%) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) Cu (%) Mo (%) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) Hypogene 29.7 3.2 247.0 2.3 90.7 93.0 62.0 58.6 Transitional Supergene 26.3 1.4 467.9 2.2 88.4 92.1 76.5 42.4 Supergene 23.1 1.8 196.6 1.3 80.5 88.6 70.6 45.9 Figure 1. Bulk concentrate during cleaner test, demonstrating froth quality. Using the test parameters that had been confirmed in the open and locked cycle tests, each of the composites was subjected to larger scale bulk flotation using 15 kg charges to create a bulk copper concentrate to be used in testing copper-molybdenum separation by flotation. Highlights include: Hypogene: 94.6% Mo recovery to a 49.9% Mo concentrate using three rougher stages Transitional Supergene: 74.4% Mo recovery to a 56.8% Mo concentrate with excellent cleaner stage recoveries Supergene: 95.6% Mo recovery to a 50.9% Mo concentrate with rapid kinetics The separation tests exceeded expectations and confirmed the flowsheet's ability to generate saleable molybdenum concentrate from all mineralized material types. Table 3. Simplified results from copper-molybdenum separation tests Composite Mo Con Recovery (%) Mo Grade (%) Cu Con Recovery (%) Cu Grade (%) Hypogene 94.6 49.9 99.3 31.6 Transitional Supergene 74.4 56.8 99.9 27.8 Supergene 95.6 50.9 99.8 21.1 Following the selection of preferred flotation conditions, each of the variability composites was subjected to a series of open circuit rougher and cleaner tests to assess the amenability of specific mineralogical conditions from various locations and depths within the proposed open pit. The hypogene and transitional supergene performed very well in comparison to previously run composite tests with average recoveries of 85.7% and 86.7% respectively for copper and 90.6% and 85.4% respectively for molybdenum. The supergene variability samples performed as expected and exhibited a high degree of correlation between overall copper recovery and the portion of non-weak acid soluble copper in the sample. Overall recoveries averaged 72.5% and 77.7% for copper and molybdenum respectively which represents an average recovery of 82% of copper assayed to be non-weak acid soluble which gives a high degree of modelling confidence going forward. It is also important to note that the variability composites were tested under open circuit conditions, and higher recoveries are expected across all samples when subjected to cycle testing or closed-circuit operations. Importantly, Surge plans to refine the geometallurgical modelling of the Berg deposit based on a more rigorous, assay-supported delineation of supergene and hypogene mineralization. Specifically, the Company will leverage CuWAS assays to better constrain the boundary between these zones. While the current supergene domain exhibits lower average recoveries relative to hypogene material, this updated approach is expected to materially reduce the volume classified as supergene. As a result, the Company anticipates a higher average copper and molybdenum recovery across the deposit, further enhancing the overall metallurgical profile. Minor element assays from representative final copper and molybdenum concentrate products confirm that both concentrates are clean and well within commercial specifications. Based on average feed material, concentrations of common deleterious elements such as arsenic, antimony, or bismuth, are not expected to reach penalty levels in final concentrates and therefore do not present any concern for operations or concentrate marketing. Additional testing in this program included several other factors. Silver and gold assays have been included in all sample results and while optimization has not focussed on precious metals, the results are generally in line with assumptions used in the PEA and will provide additional insight for future modelling purposes. As per the recommendations of the 2023 PEA the company has also completed two Hydrofloat tests of approximately 45 kg each with rougher flotation conducted at primary grind sizes of greater than 300 µm. Total metal recoveries from these tests, along with updated comminution data will be used in subsequent technical studies to model additional flow sheet opportunities such as HPGR and coarse particle flotation. Quality Control This metallurgical testwork has been undertaken at ALS Metallurgy Kamloops who conforms to ISO 9001:2015. The laboratory also conducts internal QC checks to ensure data is reported accurately. The analytical lab voluntarily partakes in the Proficiency Testing Program for Mineral Analysis laboratories (PTP-MAL). Samples of half core were delivered and, following some comminution testing, were stage-crushed to -6 mesh (3.35 mm), homogenized into composites, and rotary split into test charges. Head samples were split from each of the sub-samples for assay. Each of master composites have been analysed by standard anlytical techniques. Mineralogical analysis was conducted by QEMSCAN. Qualified Persons Dr. Shane Ebert is the Qualified Person for the Ootsa and Berg projects as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has approved the technical disclosure contained in this news release. Mark Wheeler, VP of Projects at Surge Copper Corp as well as a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has supervised the preparation of the technical information in this news release. About Surge Copper Corp. Surge Copper Corp. is a Canadian company that is advancing an emerging critical metals district in a well-developed region of British Columbia, Canada. The Company owns a large, contiguous mineral claim package that hosts multiple advanced porphyry deposits with pit-constrained NI 43-101 compliant resources of copper, molybdenum, gold, and silver – metals which are critical inputs to modern energy infrastructure and electrification technologies. The Company owns a 100% interest in the Berg Project, for which it announced a maiden PEA in June 2023 outlining a large-scale, long-life project with a simple design and high outputs of critical minerals located in a safe jurisdiction near world-class infrastructure. The PEA highlights base case economics including an NPV8% of C$2.1 billion and an IRR of 20% based on long-term commodity prices of US$4.00/lb copper, US$15.00/lb molybdenum, US$23.00/oz silver, and US$1,800/oz gold. The Berg deposit contains pit-constrained 43-101 compliant resources of copper, molybdenum, silver, and gold in the Measured, Indicated, and Inferred categories. The Company also owns a 100% interest in the Ootsa Property, an advanced-stage exploration project containing the Seel and Ox porphyry deposits located adjacent to the open pit Huckleberry Copper Mine, owned by Imperial Metals. The Ootsa Property contains pit-constrained NI 43-101 compliant resources of copper, gold, molybdenum, and silver in the Measured, Indicated, and Inferred categories. On Behalf of the Board of Directors 'Leif Nilsson'Chief Executive Officer For Further information, please contact:Riley Trimble, Corporate Communications & DevelopmentTelephone: +1 604 639 3852Email: info@ @SurgeCopperLinkedIn: Surge Copper Corphttps:// Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This News Release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "will", "may", "should", "expects", "plans", or "anticipates" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the Company's plans regarding the Berg Project and the Ootsa Property. Statements regarding metal recoveries, concentrate quality, processing flowsheet, and economic performance are based on preliminary metallurgical testwork and are subject to change as additional studies, including future pre-feasibility work, are completed. There can be no assurance that any future studies, including a Pre-Feasibility Study, will confirm the economic or technical viability of the Berg Project or result in a production decision. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Such uncertainties and risks may include, among others, actual results of the Company's exploration activities being different than those expected by management, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain required government or other regulatory approvals, the ability to obtain adequate financing to conduct its planned exploration programs, inability to procure labour, equipment, and supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis, equipment breakdown, and bad weather. While these forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect the Company's current judgment regarding the direction of its business, actual results will almost always vary, sometimes materially, from any estimates, predictions, projections, assumptions, or other future performance suggestions herein. Except as required by applicable law, the Company does not intend to update any forward-looking statements to conform these statements to actual results.
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P2 Gold Announces Positive Interim Metallurgical Results
VANCOUVER, BC, June 16, 2025 /CNW/ - P2 Gold Inc. ("P2" or the "Company") (TSXV: PGLD) (OTCQB: PGLDF) reports positive interim test results from the metallurgical program underway for its gold-copper Gabbs Project located on the Walker-Lane Trend in Nevada. The Company retained Kappes, Cassiday & Associates ("KCA") in Reno, Nevada to carry out the Phase Three Metallurgical Program, which is focused on increasing copper and gold recoveries of the oxide mineralization and providing a marketing sample of the copper-silver SART (sulphidization, acidification, recycling and thickening) concentrate. After 58 days of leaching, the metal recoveries of the Phase 3 Metallurgical Program are far exceeding the recoveries from the Phase Two Metallurgical Program and are exceeding the recoveries used in the May 2024 Preliminary Economic Assessment on the Gabbs Project. See Table 1 below for a comparison of the Phase Three results at 58 days to the Phase Two results at 58 days and the recoveries used in the 2024 Preliminary Economic Assessment. Table 1: Comparison of Interim Oxide Samples Column Test Leach Results at Day 58(1)(2) Metal Average Metal Recovery of Phase 3 Met Programat 58 Days Average Metal Recovery of Phase 2 Met Programat 58 Days May 2024 Preliminary Economic Assessment Leach Recoveries(3) Gold 86.6 % 59.4 % 78 % Silver 73.5 % 40.2 % 45 % Copper 56.6 % 28.4 % 54 % (1) Samples were submitted for preparation and multi-element analysis by KCA. All samples were analyzed using multi-acid digestion with ICP finish for silver and copper and fire assay with AA finish for gold. (2) Interim recoveries based are on standard assaying protocols and will be subject to change at the end of the program when tail assays are available and incorporated into the calculated head assays. (3) See P2 Gold news release dated May 22, 2024, and the Gabbs Technical Report dated May 17, 2024 available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at and on the Company's website at "The Phase Three Metallurgical Program was established with a target of improving the leach kinetics and overall extraction by adding cyanide during agglomeration and by increasing the cyanide concentration in the leach solutions," commented Joe Ovsenek, President & CEO of P2. "Interim test results indicate that all metals are leaching significantly faster than the prior tests, with metal recoveries exceeding those used in our May 2024 PEA and still increasing." The Phase Three Metallurgical Program is expected to continue for another 30 to 60 days to achieve maximum recoveries. Final metallurgical recoveries will be announced upon completion of the program. Prior Metallurgical Programs The Phase One Metallurgical Program included testing for the potential recoveries of copper and gold from oxide mineralization by sequential leach using heap leach or conventional milling. The test work showed that gold and copper can be recovered by both process options, with extractions averaging 97.2% for gold and 95.2% for copper when the sample is ground to 100 microns. (See P2's news release of August 4, 2021.) The Phase Two metallurgical program, also conducted by KCA, was focused on determining the preferred extraction process for the Gabbs mineralization. Based on the results of that program, KCA proposed that the oxide material be heap leached and gold recovered as a salable doré and cyanide soluble copper produced as a salable copper sulphide concentrate. Column test leach results ranged up to 89% for gold and 62% for copper. The average extraction for the three column tests was 82% for gold and 50% for copper. (See P2's news release of May 13, 2022.) Qualified Person Ken McNaughton, Chief Exploration Officer, P2 Gold, is the Qualified Person, as defined by National Instrument 43-101, responsible for the Gabbs Project. Mr. McNaughton has reviewed, verified, and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release. About P2 Gold Inc. P2 Gold is a mineral exploration and development company focused on advancing its gold-copper Gabbs Project on the Walker Lane Trend in Nevada. A positive preliminary economic assessment has outlined a long-life, mid-size mine at Gabbs with annual average production of 104,000 ounces gold and 13,500 tonnes copper over a 14.2-year mine life. The Gabbs Project has excellent infrastructure with access via paved Hwy 361, and power and water on site. Additional metallurgical testing is underway, and a water permit is expected in the second quarter of this year. All zones on the property remain open and additional exploration targets, near surface and at depth, are drill ready. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward Looking Information This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws that is intended to be covered by the safe harbours created by those laws. "Forward-looking information" includes statements that use forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "potential" or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology. Such forward-looking information includes, without limitation, information with respect to the Company's expectations, strategies and plans for its Gabbs Project including the Company's planned expenditures and exploration activities. Forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and is based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management at the date the statements are made, including without limitation, the estimated internal rate of return and net present value at a 5% discount rate of the Gabbs Project, as well as the other assumptions disclosed in this news release. Furthermore, such forward-looking information involves a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including without limitation, the estimates and assumptions contained in the Gabbs Technical Report dated May 17, 2024, and risks associated with mineral exploration, including the risk that actual results and timing of exploration and development will be different from those expected by management. See "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024, dated March 21, 2025 filed on SEDAR+ at for a discussion of these risks. The Company cautions that there can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required by law, the Company does not assume any obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking information contained in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. SOURCE P2 Gold Inc. View original content to download multimedia: Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
