Impressive Test Work Results from Reedy Creek Garnet Project
Pure Resources Limited (ASX: PR1) has successfully completed preliminary metallurgical test work on its Reedy Creek Garnet Project, located in northern Western Australia. The initial test results, derived from a 200kg bulk composite sample, revealed a substantial improvement in garnet concentration and quality, highlighting the project’s commercial potential.
High Garnet Concentration from Ore Sorting Process
The test work showed that the ore sorting process alone produced an impressive garnet content of 80% after just a single pass. This result indicates a clear path toward achieving high-purity garnet products, which are crucial for industrial applications.
Strong Market Potential for High-Purity Garnet Products
One of the most notable outcomes was the exceptional quality of garnet in the 150-250 micron fraction. This product size range, which is in high demand for water jet cutting, demonstrated a garnet purity exceeding 93%. The strong performance of this fraction presents significant opportunities in established markets across Australia, the USA, and Asia.
Plans to Expand Testing and Accelerate Commercial Development
Building on the successful preliminary results, Pure Resources is moving forward with an expedited second phase of testing. The company aims to collect approximately 2.5 tonnes of garnetiferous material by the end of October 2024. This larger sample will undergo further testing to optimize the garnet extraction process and explore the commercial viability of a range of garnet products.
Advancing Toward Trial Mining
The Reedy Creek Garnet Project has shown remarkable potential, and Pure Resources is advancing its plans to commence trial mining. With significant outcropping garnet material already identified, the company is well-positioned to meet growing demand in Asian markets for high-quality garnet products.
Executive Chairman’s Commentary
Patric Glovac, Executive Chairman of Pure Resources, expressed his excitement about the preliminary results, stating, "The early test results have provided a clear pathway toward achieving the commercial grades needed for a profitable business. We are eager to advance the next phase of test work and move toward feasibility and mining studies."
Outlook for the Reedy Creek Garnet Project
The Reedy Creek Garnet Project continues to stand out as a potentially world-class hard rock garnet project, with the capacity to become one of only three commercially viable hard rock garnet mines globally. With the project located on a granted mining lease, Pure Resources is confident about its ability to rapidly progress toward production, positioning itself as a key player in the garnet market.
Conclusion
The successful completion of preliminary test work at Reedy Creek marks a significant milestone for Pure Resources. As the company accelerates its testing and development plans, the Reedy Creek Garnet Project is poised to become a major supplier of high-quality garnet products, meeting the demands of industrial markets worldwide.