Highlights
- Element 25 increases resource estimates at Butcherbird Manganese Project in Western Australia.
- New drilling data shows 142% growth in measured and indicated resources.
- Total mineral resource reaches 274 million tonnes at 10% manganese.
Element 25 Ltd (ASX:E25), a mining company focused on manganese resources, has updated its mineral resource estimates for the Butcherbird Manganese Project, located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The latest results, following an extensive infill drilling program, reveal significant improvements in the project’s resource metrics, setting a solid foundation for the company’s Stage 2 expansion plans at Butcherbird.
The company’s updated mineral resource estimate (MRE) showcases a 142% increase in measured and indicated resources, now standing at approximately 130 million tonnes at an average grade of 10.23% manganese. This boost in resource classification signals a strengthening of the project’s resource reliability and underscores its growth potential.
Additionally, the overall total MRE has increased by 6%, rising to 274 million tonnes with an average manganese grade of 10%. This growth brings the measured and indicated resources to account for nearly 47% of the total global resource at the project, highlighting the impact of recent drilling activity. The resource estimate adjustments were informed by comprehensive drilling at key deposits, including Yanneri Ridge, Coodamudji, Richies Find, and Mundawindi, all of which are located within the project’s existing mining lease. These updated numbers reflect Element 25’s continued focus on resource expansion and optimization, vital for extending the project's productive lifespan.
Element 25’s Butcherbird project has operated in stages, with Stage 1 focused on initial mining and processing. The recent resource estimate aligns with the company’s goals for the upcoming Stage 2 expansion. The increase in measured and indicated resources not only reinforces the project’s potential but also positions Element 25 to scale its operations and explore further downstream processing opportunities. The updated resource figures set a strong platform for future developments, supporting the company’s vision to build a long-term, sustainable manganese supply source.
In parallel with these resource upgrades, Element 25 is actively working on mine optimization and scheduling. These efforts aim to streamline operations, enhance project efficiency, and support an updated ore reserve statement. The ore reserve update is expected to bolster the project’s long-term economic potential, aligning with Element 25’s strategy to establish a high-grade manganese operation with stable production and growth prospects.
By leveraging the enhanced resource estimates and focusing on expansion initiatives, Element 25 is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on increasing demand in the manganese market, reinforcing Butcherbird’s status as a key asset in the sector.