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- Release Date: 18/10/12 16:46
- Summary: MINE: CRP: Chatham Rock beneficiation tests yield promising results
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CRP
18/10/2012 14:46
MINE
REL: 1446 HRS Chatham Rock Phosphate Limited
MINE: CRP: Chatham Rock beneficiation tests yield promising results
18 October 2012
Chatham Rock Phosphate beneficiation tests yield promising results
Tests to beneficiate the rock phosphate extracted by Chatham Rock Phosphate
are encouraging.
Beneficiation is a process to raise the level of phosphate in the rock that
can increase its value. It also extends its variety of uses and the types of
fertiliser that can be manufactured.
Scientists at Victoria University working under contract for CRP have already
succeeded in beneficiating the rock from 21.6% to 28.5% P205. These studies
are continuing.
Chief Executive Chris Castle said the results of the laboratory tests are
very encouraging.
"This should result in an increased sales value for the beneficiated rock.
It would mean more of it can it could be used to make superphosphate than we
have been assuming to date, and it would increase export reach and hence
revenues."
Mr Castle said a number of fertiliser companies, both in New Zealand and
overseas, are being asked to assess the attractiveness and feasibility of
using CRP's beneficiated rock.
"The next step is to scope the cost of achieving this value increase on a
commercial scale.
"If the cost of beneficiation is attractive relative to the increase in value
of the product we will embark on a full feasibility study to build a
beneficiation plant. Such a plant would create a number of jobs and have a
significant positive influence on the New Zealand economy above and beyond
the base case benefit of $1.3 billion."
CRP's rock phosphate in its organic state is highly regarded as a product
with many environmental benefits. When directly applied to pastures after
being crushed and spread it is at least as effective as super phosphate,
while significantly reducing run off into waterways. It also has slow
release properties that last for several years and is prized as having very
low levels of the heavy metal cadmium.
Chris Castle - +64 21 55 81 85 or [email protected]
End CA:00228610 For:CRP Type:MINE Time:2012-10-18 14:46:31
