Vanadium Testwork at La Blache: Can Temas’ RCL Platform Deliver Cost Savings?
Temas Resources has launched vanadium extraction testwork at its La Blache project using its proprietary Regenerative Chloride Leach (RCL) technology, with fusion re-assays indicating potentially higher metal grades than previously reported.
- Vanadium extraction testwork underway using Temas’ patented RCL platform
- Fusion-based re-assays show 10-60% higher metal values than historical assays
- Over 36,600 metres of historic drill core being re-assayed, accelerating development
- Vanadium RCL test results expected within 45-60 days
- Plans to extend RCL testing to gallium, scandium, and chromium
A New Chapter for Vanadium Extraction
Temas Resources Corp has taken a significant step forward in its La Blache project by commencing vanadium extraction testwork using its proprietary Regenerative Chloride Leach (RCL) technology. This marks the first time the RCL platform is being applied to vanadium mineralisation at La Blache, a critical milestone that could unlock additional value from the company’s 100%-owned asset in Québec, Canada.
The company is leveraging a fusion-based re-assay method on historic drill core, which preliminary results suggest could reveal 10-60% higher metal values compared to the traditional 4-acid digestion assays previously used. This enhanced assay technique promises a more accurate understanding of the grade distribution, potentially increasing the resource’s economic attractiveness.
Accelerating Development Timelines
Temas is re-logging and re-assaying an extensive 36,614 metres of historic drill core from multiple deposits within La Blache, including Farrell Taylor, Hervieux West, and Hervieux East. This approach not only improves data quality but also materially accelerates the project’s development timeline by reducing the need for costly and time-consuming additional drilling.
Additionally, 748 sample pulps from a 2022 diamond drill program have been resubmitted for fusion re-assay, with results pending. The company expects to receive vanadium RCL test results within 45 to 60 days, which will include critical data on recovery rates, purity, and mass balance.
Expanding the Multi-Critical Metal Strategy
Following the vanadium testwork, Temas plans to extend its RCL testing to other valuable critical metals found at La Blache, including gallium, scandium, and chromium. This multi-metal approach could diversify revenue streams and enhance the overall economics of the project.
Temas’ RCL platform has already demonstrated significant cost advantages, with prior pilot testing showing up to 65% lower processing costs and the ability to produce high-purity titanium dioxide. The closed-loop design and lower temperature operation also promise a reduced environmental footprint, aligning with growing industry and investor demands for sustainable mining practices.
Regulatory and Corporate Updates
In parallel with its technical progress, Temas has re-appointed De Visser Gray LLP as its auditor to comply with both Canadian and Australian regulatory requirements, replacing HLB Mann Judd. This move ensures the company’s dual-listed status remains in good standing and reflects its commitment to regulatory compliance.
While the fusion assay results are preliminary and the commercial-scale performance of the RCL technology remains to be confirmed, Temas’ integrated approach combining proprietary processing technology with resource ownership positions it well to capitalize on the growing demand for critical minerals.
Bottom Line?
Temas’ upcoming vanadium test results could redefine La Blache’s value proposition and set the stage for multi-metal development.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the enhanced fusion assays lead to a formal resource upgrade under JORC standards?
- How will the RCL technology scale commercially for vanadium and other critical metals?
- What impact will the multi-metal extraction strategy have on project economics and timelines?
