The potential for achieving >3% Cu head grades at Storm lies in selective mining of near-surface high-grade chalcocite veins, a well-documented mining practice, possibly suitable for Chinook near surface outcropping such as 43 metres at 3.1%Cu. I am sure other high-grade zones exist.
Historical exploration and recent studies confirm localized zones of high-grade copper mineralization (>3% Cu) within the Storm area, suitable for a DSO-focused ore sorter circuit.
By targeting these high-grade veins, AW1 can provide an optimal feedstock for the sorter, reducing operational costs (delaying the installation of a jigging circuit) and enhancing early-stage project economics. This approach aligns with the mineralogy and technical feasibility of the deposit.
Note, the very last row of the Storm Global resource estimate table, if the Cu cutoff (%) is 1.5%Cu, all resources at Storm offer 4.2 Mt at 2.38%Cu for 99,200 Cu metal tonnes. whereas a cutoff at 0.35%Cu for the study is generating 17.5 Mt @ 1.17%Cu for 205,000 Cu metal tonnes.
You sacrifice tonnes for higher grade material but allows cash to be generated early to pay for staged plant construction.
The assertion that Dave O’Neill is "hoodwinking investors" through baseless statements misunderstands the intent of discussing phased development. Mining is an iterative process, and forward-looking ideas about leveraging high-grade zones or evolving to treat lower grades reflect adaptive project planning, not deception.
AW1 Price at posting:
5.7¢ Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held
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