EV Resources has successfully produced its first metallic antimony ingots from the Los Lirios project in Mexico, validating a low-cost smelting process and advancing its strategy to supply the North American market.
- First antimony ingots produced from Los Lirios mineralisation
- Proof of concept for simple, low-cost smelting process
- Diamond drilling underway to define resource extensions
- Metallurgical and assay testing ongoing for product purity
- Tecomatlán plant refurbishment and US strategic talks progressing
Milestone Achievement at Los Lirios
EV Resources Limited (ASX, EVR) has marked a significant technical milestone by producing its first metallic antimony ingots from mineralisation sourced at its flagship Los Lirios Antimony Project in Oaxaca, Mexico. This achievement validates a straightforward, low-cost smelting process that could pave the way for near-term production of a critical mineral in high demand across North America.
Using stockpiled material from two distinct open pits; Lirios 1 and Lirios 2 East; the company successfully converted raw mineralisation into metal ingots at an independent facility in Guadalajara. This proof of concept demonstrates that the Los Lirios material is amenable to simple metallurgical processing, a crucial step in de-risking the project and confirming a vertically integrated mine-to-metal pathway.
Advancing Exploration and Testing
Concurrent with metallurgical success, EV Resources is progressing its maiden diamond drilling campaign focused on the Lirios Fault Zone beneath historical workings. The drilling aims to delineate high-grade feeder structures that could significantly expand the resource base. Early core observations suggest a robust hydrothermal system, reinforcing the project's potential.
To complement these efforts, the company is refining its assay techniques by trialling specialised X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) methods to improve accuracy in measuring antimony content in high-stibnite samples. These analytical advancements will provide more reliable data to support resource estimation and future production planning.
Strategic Positioning for North American Supply
EV Resources is not only focused on Mexico but is also advancing its broader North American supply strategy. The recent acquisition of the nearby Tecomatlán Processing Plant offers a low-capital pathway to cash flow, while the company’s US projects in Nevada position it to address the significant antimony deficit in the United States.
Moreover, EVR is engaging with US government agencies to explore strategic partnerships, recognising antimony’s critical role in defence, energy storage, and high-tech applications. The company’s integrated approach; from exploration through processing to market engagement; positions it as a potentially key supplier in a market under considerable supply pressure.
Looking Ahead
EV Resources plans to release detailed metallurgical assay results soon, alongside rock chip and drill assay data from ongoing programs. These results will inform pilot processing plans and further development of the Los Lirios project. Meanwhile, refurbishment of the Tecomatlán plant continues, setting the stage for a transition from explorer to producer.
While these developments are promising, the company remains mindful of the typical risks associated with mineral exploration and development, including resource confirmation, market conditions, and regulatory approvals. Nonetheless, EVR’s recent progress underscores its commitment to securing a critical mineral supply chain for North America.
Bottom Line?
EV Resources’ first antimony ingots mark a pivotal step toward addressing North America’s supply gap, with drilling and processing plans set to define the next phase.
Questions in the middle?
- Will metallurgical testing confirm the purity levels required for strategic and defence applications?
- How will upcoming drill results impact the resource estimate and project economics?
- What progress will EV Resources make in securing partnerships with US government agencies?