American West Metals has published a detailed JORC 2012-compliant Mineral Resource Estimate for its West Desert Zinc-Copper-Indium-Magnetite Project in Utah, affirming solid resource continuity and robust sampling techniques.
- JORC 2012-compliant Mineral Resource Estimate released
- Extensive drilling and sampling underpin resource classification
- Project covers 32 square kilometres with multiple mineralised zones
- Metallurgical test work supports zinc, copper, and silver recoveries
- Further drilling and technical studies planned to refine resource
Comprehensive Resource Model Anchored by Rigorous Sampling
American West Metals Limited (ASX:AW1) has provided a comprehensive update on its West Desert Project in Utah, delivering a Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) fully compliant with the 2012 JORC Code. The report details extensive sampling methodologies, including diamond and reverse circulation drilling, alongside surface rock chip sampling and historical data integration, to underpin the resource model.
The project spans approximately 32 square kilometres, incorporating 336 unpatented lode mining claims and additional patented claims, all confirmed to be in good standing. Sampling intervals were carefully selected based on lithology, structure, and mineral assemblages to ensure representative assays, with quality control protocols involving certified reference materials and duplicates embedded throughout the process.
Drilling techniques employed include HQTT and NQ diameter core drilling, with downhole directional surveys and core orientation using EZ Gyro technology. American West’s diamond drilling was conducted by Major Drilling America Inc., ensuring industry-standard procedures. Assays were carried out at American Assay Laboratories in Reno, Nevada, using fire assay for gold and ICP methods for a comprehensive suite of elements including silver, copper, indium, and iron.
Robust Geological Interpretation and Resource Classification
The geological setting features magnetite-bearing skarns and carbonate replacement bodies with base metals such as sphalerite and chalcopyrite, alongside critical metals including indium, gallium, and germanium. The Main Zone mineralisation extends over 525 metres in length, 150 metres in width, and 575 metres in depth, with the Deep Zone hosting multiple carbonate replacement deposit horizons at greater depths.
Resource estimation was performed using Maptek’s Vulcan 3D software with Inverse Distance Squared interpolation, applying anisotropic search parameters tailored to lithologic domains. Block sizes ranged from 2.5 to 5 metres, with composite samples capped based on statistical analysis to mitigate outlier influence. The MRE classifies resources into Indicated and Inferred categories, reflecting varying confidence levels based on data density and continuity.
Metallurgical test programs support assumed processing recoveries of 65% zinc for oxide heap leach material, 85% zinc and 70% copper for oxide mill leach, and up to 87% zinc, 70% copper, and 80% silver for sulphide mill flotation. These assumptions feed into ongoing economic assessments and flowsheet development.
Historical Exploration and Future Work Programmes
The West Desert Project benefits from a rich exploration history dating back to the late 1950s, with multiple operators conducting drilling, geophysical surveys, and metallurgical studies. American West Metals has integrated this legacy data with recent drilling and sampling to enhance the resource model’s robustness.
Further metallurgical testing and technical reporting are underway to refine mineralogical models and processing strategies. Planned activities include drilling to test geophysical targets and high-priority exploration zones within the project area, aiming to expand resource definitions and support feasibility studies.
Notably, the project’s resource update arrives amid American West Metals’ recent capital raise aimed at accelerating critical metals drilling, including indium and copper targets, aligning with US strategic supply objectives. This momentum is bolstered by ongoing government engagement and exploration campaigns focused on critical mineral supply chains. The company’s methodical approach to data validation and resource estimation reflects a commitment to rigorous standards, providing investors with greater clarity on the project's potential.
Bottom Line?
While the JORC-compliant resource update strengthens the West Desert Project’s technical foundation, upcoming drilling results and metallurgical studies will be pivotal in translating resources into economic value.
Questions in the middle?
- How will ongoing drilling campaigns impact resource classification and size?
- What refinements in metallurgical recovery can be expected from further test work?
- How might evolving US critical minerals policies influence project development timelines?