Apollo successfully produces saleable zinc & lead in metallurgy tests at Kroussou, Gabon

Apollo Minerals (ASX:AON) is reporting initial metallurgical testwork success at its Kroussou zinc-lead project located in Gabon, Africa. 

After having materials tested by an independent metallurgist, the company is reporting the following numbers: 

• Zinc recovery into concentrate of 93% 

• Lead recovery into concentrate of 94.4% 

Apollo further adds “exceptional high-quality zinc and lead concentrates produced:” 

• Zinc Concentrate Grade of 53% Zn 

• Lead Concentrate Grade of 70% Pb

The company expects these results to underpin future feasibility studies for Kroussou, given that now the company has proved product from the location can be processed into acceptable material for sales. 

Underpins confidence: Management 

“The Kroussou metallurgy results compare favourably with recoveries and concentrate grades of current zinc and lead producers and are on the upper end of globally accepted benchmarks,” Apollo Minerals MD Mr. Neil Inwood said. 

“We are looking forward to defining a JORC compliant exploration target for Kroussou which we believe will demonstrate the global significance of Kroussou.” 

Apollo has plans to eventually construct an open-pit mine operation at the project. 

“Confirmation we have identified a simple processing pathway for Kroussou mineralisation into clean saleable zinc and lead concentrates provides further confidence in the project,” Inwood added. 

Shallow depths 

Worth noting is the Kroussou play boasts mineralisation starting at only 3.5m depth, making it safely near-surface, meaning the play can be developed by starting to move earth from the surface. 

In short, there is no need for Kroussou mine engineers to undertake the more complex, and far more expensive journey, of developing an underground mine. 

Apollo is gearing up to launch a new drilling campaign on-site the project with a target to the north of existing drillholes on the project acreage being put in the crosshairs for the next run. 

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Disclaimer: Market Index helps small-cap ASX listed companies connect with Australian investors through clear and concise articles on key developments. Apollo was a client at the time of publishing. All coverage contains factual information only and should not be interpreted as an opinion or financial advice.