Highlights
- Anglo Asian Mining assesses the Demirli copper mine in Azerbaijan for potential reopening, focusing on site integrity and remaining ore.
- The site includes two open pits and a flotation plant, with an estimated 58 million tonnes of ore and potential reserves for copper concentrate.
- A mineral resources estimate and an environmental study are in progress to guide future operations.
Anglo Asian Mining PLC (OTC:AGXKF) operates within the mining sector, focusing on mineral extraction and processing. The company is evaluating the Demirli copper mine in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region, initially opened several years ago and acquired by Anglo Asian in recent times. The assessment involves understanding the mine’s current state and determining its feasibility for copper concentrate production.
Overview of the Demirli Copper Mine
The Demirli copper mine includes two contiguous open pits and a flotation plant designed to process millions of tonnes of ore annually. Originally operational for a decade until a recent pause, the facility was established for large-scale production. Anglo Asian acquired the contract area and is now examining the site's readiness for resuming activities. The flotation plant, critical to copper concentrate production, remains intact and in reasonable condition, and a study is underway on the tailings dam to confirm its serviceability and assess possibilities for structural expansion.
Estimation of Remaining Ore Reserves
With incomplete data, Anglo Asian Mining estimates the Demirli site holds approximately 58 million tonnes of ore, with around 239,000 tonnes of copper. Notably, 22 million tonnes of this ore have been classified as reserves and are potentially suitable for flotation processes. These reserves could provide an essential feedstock for the plant, supporting operational sustainability.
Survey and Drilling Activities for Site Analysis
To better understand the site's topology and locate sizeable ore blocks, Anglo Asian conducted a recent drone survey across the Demirli mine. The survey aimed to capture the deposit's layout, assisting in more precise planning. Additionally, Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling activities are taking place, extending to specific depths to identify and confirm ore blocks. These blocks, once identified, will allow for the initial commissioning of the flotation plant, with plans to maintain at least one year of operation.
Future Resource Estimation and Environmental Considerations
In line with the industry-standard JORC (Joint Ore Reserves Committee) guidelines, Anglo Asian intends to produce a mineral resources estimate for Demirli’s remaining ore deposit. This estimation will offer insights into the site's potential and support decision-making regarding future operations. Near-mine exploration targets are also under review, as Anglo Asian seeks to determine if additional copper deposits are present nearby.